Grand Forks, North Dakota – Drivers across northeast North Dakota could lose visibility within minutes Thursday evening as blizzard conditions push across the region, with winds nearing 60 mph strong enough to shut down open highways and strand vehicles before midnight.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, heavy blowing snow will begin intensifying Thursday afternoon and evening, creating very difficult to impossible travel across northeast North Dakota and parts of northwest Minnesota through early Friday morning. Forecasters warn that strong crosswinds could especially impact high-profile vehicles along exposed roadways like Interstate 29 and U.S. Highway 2.
Grand Forks, Devils Lake, and surrounding communities could see rapid whiteout conditions as snow combines with powerful wind gusts. In northwest Minnesota, travel around Crookston, East Grand Forks, and Thief River Falls may also deteriorate quickly as the storm spreads east.
Transportation officials warn drifting snow may block rural roads, while wind gusts approaching 60 mph could trigger scattered power outages across the region. Emergency managers urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel Thursday night and keep phones charged, flashlights ready, and vehicles stocked with winter survival gear.
Conditions should gradually improve toward early Friday morning, though strong winds may continue causing reduced visibility in open areas. Additional advisories or travel warnings could still be issued if snowfall intensifies overnight.
