Bismarck, North Dakota – Drivers across north central and northwest North Dakota are facing slick and potentially dangerous travel conditions Sunday as freezing rain spreads across the region, creating a glaze of ice on roads, bridges, and sidewalks.
According to the National Weather Service in Bismarck, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect through Sunday evening for a broad area including Divide, Burke, Renville, Bottineau, Rolette, Williams, Mountrail, Ward, McHenry, and Pierce counties. A light glaze of ice, up to a few hundredths of an inch, is expected as surface temperatures remain below freezing while rain falls.
Even small amounts of ice can significantly reduce traction, especially on untreated roads, overpasses, and secondary highways. Communities including Minot, Williston, Stanley, Bottineau, Rugby, Rolla, Crosby, and New Town could see rapidly changing driving conditions through the afternoon and early evening hours.
Road crews may struggle to keep up with icy spots, particularly in rural areas where freezing rain lingers longer. Pedestrians are also urged to use caution, as sidewalks and parking lots may become dangerously slick.
Motorists are advised to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden braking. The advisory is set to expire early Sunday evening, though lingering slick spots could persist after precipitation ends. Drivers should continue checking North Dakota 511 for the latest road conditions as the system moves east.
