Winter Storm Warning: Traveling? Leave Sooner Than Later In NoDak

According to the National Weather Service, a Winter Storm Warning has been issued for a good share of North Dakota including the Bismarck area from 12 noon today Sunday, December 26th until 6 pm Monday, December 27th.  The storm area includes the cities of Ashley, over to Bismarck to Minot to just east of Crosby, and all points east of that line in North Dakota.  The remainder of the state is in a Winter Weather Advisory.

We are expecting 5 to 8 inches of additional snow with a light glaze of ice possible prior to the snow.  Winds will be blowing as high as 45 miles per hour causing significant blowing and drifting snow.

Traveling will become very difficult.  Roads, and especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous.  Widespread blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.  The hazardous conditions will impact the Monday morning and evening commutes.  Near whiteout conditions are possible in rural areas.

If you must travel today, the sooner the better.  The system is coming from the south and will spread north and east across the state.

Persons should delay travel if possible.  If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case you become stranded.  The latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 511 in North Dakota.

To add insult to injury, very bitter cold air is expected across the state beginning Monday and will last through the New Years' weekend.  Sub-zero highs and overnight lows in the '20s below zero are possible.  More snow is likely Monday night and into Tuesday.