GRAND FORKS, Minn. — A powerful winter storm moving into the Upper Midwest has prompted the National Weather Service (NWS) to issue a Winter Storm Warning for several counties in central and northern Minnesota, including Crow Wing, Aitkin, Cass, and Itasca.
The storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions beginning early Tuesday morning, just as millions of Americans prepare for Thanksgiving travel.
Travel Hazards and NWS Warnings
According to the National Weather Service, areas under the warning could face visibility reduced to a quarter mile or less due to falling and blowing snow. Wind gusts from the north at 25 to 30 mph are expected to intensify the storm’s impact.
“Travel could be very difficult,” the NWS cautioned in its Monday media briefing. “There will be a two- to five-hour period on Tuesday of heavy snowfall rates that will reduce visibility to as low as a quarter to half mile.”
The warning covers a wide swath from the southern Devils Lake basin and southern Red River Valley into west-central Minnesota, where the heaviest snow will linger.
Expected Snowfall Totals
Forecast models suggest Fargo, Detroit Lakes, Park Rapids, and Wadena could receive 3 to 8 inches of snow, while Devils Lake and Grand Forks are likely to see 1 to 4 inches. Areas north of Grand Forks may receive only trace amounts.
WDAY Meteorologist Charles Pekar noted that the timing of the storm will make Tuesday morning’s commute particularly challenging.
“As we head overnight, by around 3 to 5 a.m., we’ll wake up to snow moving through Tuesday morning and that wind coming out of the north,” Pekar said. “Tuesday morning’s commute might be a tricky one for some.”
Regional Impact and Timing
The storm system will begin affecting the region late Monday night, intensifying by early Tuesday morning. By Tuesday evening, temperatures are expected to drop into the 20s, creating the potential for icy roadways and blowing snow.
While North Dakota counties are under a Winter Weather Advisory, central and west-central Minnesota face the brunt of the storm with heavier snowfall accumulations and longer storm duration.
Forecast Outlook
Meteorologists expect conditions to gradually improve late Wednesday, but lingering slick roads could affect early holiday travelers.
Residents are urged to:
- Avoid non-essential travel during peak snowfall hours.
- Keep emergency kits in vehicles.
- Monitor local forecasts for real-time updates on storm progression.
With Thanksgiving approaching, authorities emphasize caution for anyone traveling across the Midwest as this storm marks one of the season’s first major winter weather events.
Stay connected with HonkNews.com for continued updates on storm conditions, travel advisories, and weather alerts across Minnesota and surrounding states.