High Wind Warning For Bismarck Mandan Causing Problems

The EAS (Emergency Activation System) just issued a High Wind Warning for Bismarck Mandan and the following counties.  According to the National Weather Service, this includes the counties of Burleigh, Morton, McLean, Sheridan, Kidder, Emmons, Logan, McIntosh, and Dickey.  This includes the cities of Bismarck, Mandan, Ashley, Goodrich, Steele, Wilton, Wishek, Underwood, Linton, Oakes, Tappen, Gackle, Mcclusky, Washburn, Garrison, Turtle Lake, Ellendale, and Napoleon.

This High Wind Warning is in effect until 9 pm tonight Central Standard Time.  You can expect strong northwest winds 30 to 45 miles per hour with gusts up to 60 miles per hour.  Slippery roads are possible as well as temperatures are expected to fall throughout the afternoon and evening.  Many area roads are still wet from recent rain and ice.

Some of the impacts include.  Damaging winds may blow down trees and power lines.  Travel will be difficult, especially for high-profile vehicles.  Visibility could also be reduced due to the strong winds and scattered afternoon snow showers.  Drivers are reminded to watch out for falling debris and tree limbs.  Be sure to use caution if you must drive.  Homeowners are reminded to fasten or secure items in their yard.

In an email obtained from the North Dakota Highway Department, they are urging all motorists to travel with care during these conditions.  Motorists can access road and weather information by visiting NDRoads by clicking here.  The map has a feature that displays windspeeds reported by the National Weather Service.