Winter is showing no mercy in North Dakota this week. Snowfall and bitterly cold temperatures are settling in, and they’re not going anywhere anytime soon. If you’ve been waiting for a break in the weather, it’s not coming—so it’s time to bundle up and get ready for a cold, snowy ride.
Here’s What to Expect:
Fargo:
- Monday: Light snow (1-3 cm) will dust the area, with highs around 8°F (-13°C) and lows dropping to a frigid -8°F (-22°C).
- Tuesday: More bitter cold and occasional snow flurries, though little accumulation is expected. Highs will barely reach 7°F (-14°C), and lows will hover near 4°F (-16°C).
- Wednesday: Things warm up slightly (if you can call it that), with a high near 20°F (-7°C). But don’t celebrate—snow will return in the afternoon with another 1-3 cm expected.
Bismarck:
- Monday: Morning snow will bring 1-3 cm of accumulation, with a bitterly cold high of 0°F (-18°C). Lows could hit -9°F (-23°C), so bundle up!
- Tuesday: Expect occasional flurries, with highs around 5°F (-15°C) and lows near 1°F (-17°C).
- Wednesday: Another cold day with cloudy skies and afternoon snow (1-3 cm). Highs will be near 11°F (-12°C), with lows around -6°F (-21°C).
Grand Forks:
- Monday: Breezy and cloudy with highs at 5°F (-15°C) and lows dipping to -10°F (-23°C).
- Tuesday: Cold and snowy, but only minimal accumulation is expected. Highs will sit around 5°F (-15°C), with lows near 2°F (-16°C).
- Wednesday: A significant snow event could bring 6-12 cm of fresh snow. Highs will hit 13°F (-11°C), with lows around -4°F (-20°C).
Dangerous Conditions Ahead:
The National Weather Service has issued Winter Weather Advisories for many parts of the state. Expect slippery roads, blowing snow, and reduced visibility. Wind chills as low as -25°F (-32°C) could lead to frostbite within minutes, so dress in layers and cover exposed skin.
Tips to Stay Safe:
- Limit travel if you can, especially on Wednesday when snowfall will intensify.
- Stay warm and dress in layers—this is frostbite weather.
- Prepare your vehicle with an emergency kit, including blankets, food, water, and a phone charger.
Final Word:
Winter in North Dakota is no joke, and this week will be proof of that. Plan ahead, be cautious on the roads, and don’t underestimate the power of wind and cold. Stay warm, stay safe, and remember—it’s always better to overprepare than be caught off guard by Mother Nature.
