Blizzard Conditions Are Now Possible For Parts Of North Dakota

The National Weather Service has now issued a Winter Storm Watch for the eastern half of North Dakota.

This includes the cities of Grand Forks, Fargo, Wahpeton, Hillsboro, Pembina, Lisbon, and Valley City from 12 midnight Saturday, March 15th, to 12 midnight, Sunday, March 16th.

The Winter Storm Watch also extends into northwest and west central Minnesota. This watch area will likely be upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning or Blizzard Warning later today.

What is the timing of this very powerful winter storm?

Rain, freezing rain, and a wintry mix are expected to develop after midnight in the Red River Valley. These conditions will be accompanied by very strong northwest winds over 30 miles per hour that could gust to over 50 miles per hour.

Freezing rain will cause very icy conditions on highways and turn over to snow by early Saturday morning. Snow accumulations could be heavy at times, with anywhere from 1 to 8 inches possible, depending on how quickly temperatures fall below freezing.

What will be the impacts of this winter storm?

Visibilities may drop below 1/4 mile due to falling and blowing snow. Whiteout conditions are possible and may make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.

If you have travel plans to the eastern part of North Dakota late Friday evening, you should consider delaying your travel. Officials warn that if travel is absolutely necessary, drive with extreme caution.

Make sure you have a winter storm kit along with you that includes items like a flashlight, booster cables, a shovel, blankets, extra clothing, and food and water.

What will we see in the Capital Region and south-central North Dakota?

This will be mainly a wind event for us. A Wind Advisory is in effect from 7 pm tonight, extending through 7 pm Saturday evening. Northwest winds are expected from 35 to 45 miles per hour.

We have a very slight chance of rain and sleet after 3 pm this afternoon. This could change over to snow after 8 pm and continue into the overnight with accumulations of a half inch or less.

Again, consider changing your travel plans if you are heading toward eastern North Dakota late tonight.