Grand Forks, North Dakota – Travel across northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota could become nearly impossible after 6 p.m. Tuesday as heavy snow and 40 mph wind gusts sweep into the Red River Valley.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 6 p.m. Tuesday until midnight Wednesday night. Widespread snowfall totals of 5 to 10 inches are expected, with locally higher amounts possible from Devils Lake and Langdon to Grand Forks, Crookston and Bemidji. A light glaze of ice may develop at times, compounding slick conditions.
Wind gusts up to 40 mph will generate blowing and drifting snow, especially in open country along Interstate 29, U.S. Highway 2 and Highway 75. Sudden drops in visibility could create near-whiteout conditions, particularly in rural stretches prone to drifting.
The storm will likely disrupt both the Wednesday morning and evening commutes, with plows struggling to keep pace during heavier bands.
Drivers should avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies in vehicles and monitor 511 road reports for updates. Snow and wind are expected to taper late Wednesday night, though additional advisories may follow if snowfall totals increase.
