GRAND FORKS, N.D. — The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for much of eastern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, warning of the potential for heavy snow, strong winds, and hazardous travel from Tuesday morning through late Tuesday night.
Forecasters said snow is expected to develop early Tuesday, with some areas seeing a brief period of freezing rain before a transition to all snow. Winds could gust up to 40 mph, creating areas of blowing and drifting snow and leading to sharply reduced visibility, particularly in open and rural areas.
The watch includes a broad region spanning Grand Forks, Fargo, Devils Lake, Bemidji, Detroit Lakes, Crookston, and Thief River Falls. Snowfall totals have not yet been finalized, but forecasters warned that travel could become difficult to dangerous at times throughout Tuesday, especially during the morning and evening commutes.
“Travel conditions could deteriorate rapidly with falling and blowing snow reducing visibility,” the weather service said in a statement late Sunday. “Drivers should be prepared for slippery roads and changing conditions.”
Gusty winds could also down tree branches or cause localized power outages, forecasters said.
The storm is expected to exit the region late Tuesday night into early Wednesday, followed by colder air and the potential for lingering snow showers.
Residents are urged to monitor updated forecasts as the system approaches. The weather service advises checking road conditions before traveling and carrying winter emergency supplies in vehicles.
