Dickinson, North Dakota – Drivers across southwest and south-central North Dakota could face dangerous travel conditions beginning before sunrise Saturday as a winter storm brings heavy snow and blowing snow across the region through Sunday.
According to the National Weather Service in Bismarck, a Winter Storm Warning begins as early as 3 a.m. Saturday in southwest North Dakota and expands eastward through the morning, lasting into Sunday afternoon or evening depending on location.
Communities including Dickinson, Bowman, Beach, Hettinger, Mott, and Medora are expected to receive 5 to 9 inches of snow, with winds gusting near 35 mph. Those winds may blow snow across open highways, reducing visibility and making rural travel hazardous.
Farther east toward Mandan, Linton, Fort Yates, and Elgin, the storm arrives by 7 a.m. Saturday with similar snowfall totals and gusty winds creating drifting snow on open roads.
In southeastern parts of the state including Oakes, Ellendale, and Ashley, winds may gust up to 45 mph by late Saturday, increasing the risk of blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.
Major travel routes such as Interstate 94 near Dickinson and highways across southwest North Dakota could become difficult to navigate as snow intensifies.
Officials advise residents to limit travel if possible, carry emergency supplies in vehicles, and monitor road conditions through North Dakota 511. Hazardous travel conditions could persist through much of Sunday as blowing snow continues across the region.
