Winter Storm to Hit Northern Plains This Weekend

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A major winter storm is forecast to impact the Northern Plains region this weekend, bringing accumulating snow, blowing snow, and the potential for freezing rain and icy conditions early next week. The storm is expected to bring 4-6 inches of snow, with localized totals up to a foot, mainly along the North Dakota/South Dakota border. Blowing snow will reduce visibility at times, especially on Sunday.

Why it matters

Winter storms can have significant impacts on travel, power outages, and daily life across the Northern Plains. This storm has the potential to disrupt transportation, close schools, and create hazardous conditions for residents in the affected areas.

The details

The winter storm is expected to bring snow starting Saturday afternoon, lasting through Sunday. Winds will also increase, with gusts up to 28 mph, leading to blowing and drifting snow. On Sunday, widespread blowing snow may reduce visibility to near-whiteout conditions in the southern Red River Valley. The storm may also bring freezing rain and additional accumulating snow on Tuesday and Wednesday, potentially creating icy travel conditions.

• Snow likely to begin Saturday afternoon, lasting through Sunday.
• Blowing snow expected to increase on Sunday, reducing visibility.
• Potential for freezing rain and accumulating snow on Tuesday and Wednesday.

What’s next

Weather forecasters will continue to monitor the storm's progress and provide updates on potential impacts and travel advisories as the weekend approaches.