**Blizzard Warnings Issued Across Northern U.S. as Winter Storm Terry Intensifies**
Key Takeaways:
- Blizzard warnings now active in parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota
- Winter Storm Terry expected to bring up to 18 inches of snow and wind gusts over 50 mph
- Officials urge residents to avoid travel and prepare for possible power outages
Fargo, North Dakota — A powerful snowstorm has prompted a widespread blizzard warning across the Upper Midwest, with emergency alerts and hazardous road conditions unfolding rapidly as of Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service has issued blizzard warnings across large portions of North Dakota, South Dakota, and Minnesota as Winter Storm Terry pushes eastward with intensifying force.
High Winds and Heavy Snow Prompt Urgent Alerts
Blizzard conditions have already set in across western North Dakota, with wind gusts exceeding 50 mph and snowfall rates of up to 2 inches per hour. Transportation officials have closed several interstates, including parts of I-94 and I-29, due to near-zero visibility. Forecasters warn that total snowfall could reach 12 to 18 inches in some areas by Wednesday evening, and are advising residents to avoid all non-essential travel.
Unusually Early Storm Adds Pressure to Seasonal Shifts
This week’s blizzard warning follows a pattern of increasingly early-season winter storms across the northern Plains. Meteorologists point to a combination of Arctic air plunging southward and moisture surging in from the Pacific Northwest as to why the storm has intensified so quickly. Early winter weather in November has historically increased risks for crop losses and transportation disruptions, and some experts are comparing the current system to the “Thanksgiving storm” of 2019, which caused millions in damages.
Travel Risks and Power Outages Loom for Residents
Emergency services in affected counties are preparing for power outages as ice and snow accumulate on power lines. Airlines have already canceled over 700 flights nationwide, with Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport among the hardest hit. With Thanksgiving travel expected to ramp up in the coming week, officials warn that delays and escalating transit challenges could build into the weekend.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is blizzard warning trending?
A: A fast-strengthening winter storm is causing dangerous blizzard conditions across the Upper Midwest.
Q: What happens next?
A: Storm conditions will spread east into Wisconsin and Michigan by Thursday, with worsening travel impacts expected.
#BlizzardWarning
