Grand Forks, North Dakota – Drivers across northern North Dakota and northwest Minnesota could face snow-covered highways and sharply reduced visibility by the Wednesday morning commute as a winter storm system targets the region late Tuesday night.
According to the National Weather Service in Bismarck and Grand Forks, a Winter Storm Watch is in effect from late Tuesday night through Wednesday evening. Forecasters say there is a 50 percent chance that snowfall totals will exceed 6 inches, with wind gusts reaching 35 mph. The combination could create blowing snow and brief whiteout conditions.
The watch spans much of north central and northwest North Dakota, including Minot, Williston, Bottineau and Rugby, as well as the Red River Valley cities of Grand Forks, Devils Lake and Langdon. In northwest Minnesota, communities such as Roseau, Thief River Falls, Bemidji and Baudette are also under the alert.
Major routes including Interstate 29, U.S. Highway 2 and Highway 52 could see drifting snow and slick stretches, especially on open rural roads. Travel delays are likely during both the Wednesday morning and evening commutes.
Residents should prepare now by checking road conditions before departure, keeping emergency kits in vehicles and allowing extra travel time. Additional advisories or warnings may be issued as snowfall confidence increases. The watch remains in effect through Wednesday evening.
