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FARGO —
UPDATED THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17TH AT 5:30 p.m.: Many slick spots are being reported across our region with the falling and blowing snow. Wind gusts were strongest in central and western North Dakota with many spots gusting up to 40mph to reduce visibility throughout the day.
The gusts will diminish briefly tonight and the light snow will taper off as well allowing for slightly better conditions for Friday morning. However another cold front will drift through our region on Friday afternoon to bring another batch of light snow and blustery winds again topping 35-40mph, especially across North Dakota. Prepare for more rough roads in the second half of the day Friday, even in Minnesota as the gusts will be slightly more widespread and any fresh snow will easily be blown around.
UPDATED THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17 AT 8:00 a.m.: As expected, the wind has picked up this morning. Many roads across the region are snow or ice covered. Even if a road looks clear, be wary of a few surprise slick spots with the cold air continuing to rush over the pavement. Plan extra time for any travel today, and check road conditions before heading out. You can find road conditions on the StormTRACKER app - free on the Google Play of App Store.
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UPDATED WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16 AT 9:45 p.m.: Wednesday evening update to the expected wind Thursday and Friday. The orientation of upper level wind to the expected wind at the surface is not looking as good as earlier for Thursday. This probably means a little less wind than expected for North Dakota and western Minnesota Thursday. Friday's wind will likely be a little stronger, however.
A cold front sweeping across the Northern Plains will bring gusty winds and new driving hazards to many parts of the region Thursday and Friday. The front will also bring periods of light snow. Although accumulations will generally be an inch or less, the wind will be strong enough to move the snow already on the ground to cause icy roads and ground drifting.
The strongest winds will occur in the central and western Dakotas, where drifting snow will likely be a significant problem. For the Red River Valley and across much of Minnesota, ground drifting will be enough to create icy stretches on the roads but drifting is expected to be minor.
By late Thursday into Friday, temperatures in the teens and single digits combined with the wind will produce subzero wind chills.
