Near-Blizzard Winter Advisory issued for 4 counties in Montana and Minnesota
The National Weather Service (NWS) has a Winter weather advice four northern counties in Minnesota and North Dakota are under warnings of snowstorms and hazardous travel conditions through Friday evening.
According to the National Weather Service in Grand Forksthe advice will apply from 9am to 7pm CST Friday for Kittson and Roseau counties in Minnesota, as well as Cavalier and Pembina counties in North Dakota. Forecasters say strong winds and widespread snowstorms could develop near blizzard conditions in open countryespecially in rural areas.
The advisory, issued Thursday afternoon, highlights the potential for gusty winds as high as 55 miles per hoursignificantly reducing visibility in exposed areas. “Snow is expected, with near blizzard conditions possible in open terrain,” the NWS said in its urgent winter weather statement. Officials emphasized that Hazardous conditions are likely to impact the Friday evening commuteespecially on north-south roads where crosswinds can be strongest.
Communities included in the advisory area include Cavalier, Hallock, Langdon, Drayton and Roseau. While heavy snowfall is not the primary concern, the combination of existing snow cover and strong winds are expected to produce blowing and white snow at times.
Meteorologists explain that open farmland and rural highways are particularly vulnerable to sudden reduced visibility. Even short periods of absence can make traveling treacherous. Drivers may encounter drifting snow on the roads, which can lead to slippery spots and reduced traction.
The National Weather Service advises residents to do so be careful when traveling, especially in open areas. Motorists are encouraged to check updated road conditions before traveling. The agency recommends calling 511 for the latest state-specific highway information.
While the advisory does not rise to the level of a winter storm warning, officials warn that blowing snow could be just as disruptive as heavy snow. High winds can also cause minor property damage, especially to unsecured outdoor items.
Weather patterns across the Northern Plains have remained active this week, with fluctuating temperatures and passing systems contributing to variable snow conditions. Forecasters say the current advisory is related to a strong pressure gradient moving through the region, generating intense wind speeds that can lift loose snow into the air.
Emergency management officials are urging residents to prepare by allowing extra travel time, keeping emergency kits in vehicles and avoiding unnecessary trips during peak wind periods. Those traveling in rural areas should be particularly vigilant as visibility can change quickly over short distances.
The National Weather Service continues to monitor conditions and will provide updates if the situation worsens. Residents are kept informed through official bodies NOAA weather channels and local emergency alerts.
As winter weather continues to impact the Northern Plains, authorities are emphasizing the importance of preparedness and caution. Even if there is no heavy snowfall, strong winds and blowing snow can create dangerous and unpredictable travel conditionsmaking awareness and planning essential for community safety.
