Grand Forks, North Dakota – Wind gusts up to 45 mph are slashing visibility across northeast North Dakota and northwest Minnesota, creating near-blizzard conditions in open country and turning highways slick ahead of the evening commute.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forks, a Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect until 7 p.m. Friday for Grand Forks, Walsh, Ramsey, Benson and Nelson counties in North Dakota, along with Polk, Roseau, Kittson, Marshall, Pennington and Red Lake counties in Minnesota. Patchy blowing and drifting snow continues to push across exposed roadways, with visibility at times dropping below a half mile.
I-29 from Grand Forks to Pembina, U.S. Highway 2 toward Devils Lake, and Highway 75 near Hallock and Crookston are especially vulnerable to sudden whiteout bursts. Drifting snow has led to icy patches, particularly on bridges and rural east-west roads.
North Dakota DOT and MnDOT urge drivers to check 511 before traveling and to reduce speed immediately if visibility drops. High-profile vehicles face the greatest risk in crosswinds nearing 45 mph.
Winds ease gradually after sunset, but icy stretches may persist into the overnight hours. Additional advisories could be issued if conditions redevelop.
