A severe winter storm is unleashing heavy snow and strong winds across the Upper Midwest, disrupting travel and prompting widespread weather alerts for affected areas.
A massive winter storm has prompted the National Weather Service to issue warnings for Minnesota, North Dakota, and Wisconsin, affecting over 30 counties.
A car stuck in the snow off an Interstate Highway, dated December 13, 2010 | Source: Getty Images
The warnings forecast heavy snow, strong winds, and hazardous travel conditions, with impacts expected to last through Thursday evening (December 19) and into Friday morning (December 20) in some areas. Residents across the region are advised to take precautions as outlined by local authorities and the National Weather Service.
In Minnesota and North Dakota, heavy snow and high winds are creating hazardous conditions. In northwest Minnesota and northeast and southeast North Dakota, including cities such as Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Crookston, and Mahnomen, total snow accumulations are predicted to range from 4 to 8 inches. Winds gusting as high as 40 mph are likely to result in blowing snow and significantly reduced visibility.
A lonely country road on a windy snowing day in Minnesota, dated March 24, 2020 | Source: Getty Images
These conditions are expected to persist until 6 p.m. CST Thursday, impacting both morning and evening commutes. Travelers are advised to carry emergency kits, including a flashlight, food, and water, and to check road conditions by calling 511.
Central and west-central Minnesota and southeast North Dakota are also under a winter storm warning. Cities such as Fargo, Moorhead, Detroit Lakes, and Wadena are preparing for snow accumulations between 3 and 7 inches. Whiteout conditions, caused by strong winds and blowing snow, are expected to make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.
Winter storm road hazard conditions in Grand Forks, North Dakota, in March 2014 | Source: Getty Images
Residents in these areas are strongly advised to delay travel unless absolutely necessary and to equip their vehicles with winter survival kits containing blankets, tire chains, and other essentials.
In Wells and Foster Counties, North Dakota, including the cities of Fessenden, Carrington, and Harvey, the storm is forecasted to bring 4 to 7 inches of snow. Blowing snow could create near-blizzard conditions, making travel extremely dangerous, especially during the Thursday morning commute.
A water tower seen in a snowstorm in North Dakota, dated December 28, 2018 | Source: Getty Images
Similar conditions are expected in north-central and northwest North Dakota, including areas such as Rolla, Rugby, Minot, and Bottineau. Snowfall accumulations are projected to range from 5 to 8 inches, accompanied by strong winds that will reduce visibility. Residents in these regions are urged to delay travel plans and monitor weather updates for changing conditions.
A bike route sign in a blizzard in Grand Forks, North Dakota, dated November 29, 2016 | Source: Getty Images
Several areas in Minnesota are also experiencing significant snowfall and hazardous conditions. Crow Wing, Pine, South Aitkin, and Cass Counties, which include cities such as Brainerd and Pine City, are expected to receive 4 to 6 inches of snow.
The storm is forecasted to persist until midnight CST Thursday night, causing slippery roads and challenging travel conditions. Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and to ensure their vehicles are equipped for winter weather.
