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North Dakota Blizzard Intensifies, Travel Halted

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  Published in Travel and Leisure on Thursday, March 12th 2026 at 22:40 GMT by Valley News Live
      Locales: North Dakota, UNITED STATES

BISMARCK, N.D. - March 13th, 2026 - A ferocious blizzard continues to batter North Dakota, grinding travel to a halt and prompting widespread concerns for public safety. What began as a significant winter storm has rapidly intensified, exceeding initial forecasts and now threatening to become one of the most severe blizzards in the state's recent history. The National Weather Service (NWS) has extended blizzard warnings through Sunday evening, and officials are bracing for potentially catastrophic conditions.

Widespread Impact and State of Emergency Considerations

The storm is not confined to a single region; it's impacting nearly the entire state. The heaviest snowfall, currently ranging from 8 to 16 inches in many areas - with isolated reports exceeding 20 inches in western and central North Dakota - is coupled with sustained winds gusting upwards of 70 mph in open areas. These conditions have created near-zero visibility, making travel not only difficult but exceedingly dangerous. The NDDOT reports over 200 miles of Interstate 29 and Interstate 94 are currently closed, along with numerous state and county highways. These closures are expected to remain in effect for at least 24-36 hours, and potentially longer in severely impacted areas.

Governor Emily Carter is currently considering a statewide state of emergency declaration. While resources are being deployed, the sheer scale of the storm is straining emergency response capabilities. The declaration would unlock additional state and federal aid, including National Guard assistance for rescue operations and snow removal, and potentially facilitate access to emergency sheltering for stranded travelers.

Beyond Roads: Power Outages and Infrastructure Concerns

The blizzard isn't just affecting roadways. Sustained high winds are downing power lines across the state, leading to widespread outages. As of 2:00 PM CST, over 45,000 homes and businesses are without power, primarily in the eastern and central portions of the state. Utility companies are scrambling to restore service, but progress is hampered by the dangerous conditions and limited access to affected areas. Officials warn that power outages could last for several days in some locations. There are also increasing concerns regarding the structural integrity of buildings, especially older barns and sheds, given the heavy snow load and intense wind pressure.

Travelers Urged to Stay Off Roads; Airport Closures

The NDDOT and NWS are reiterating their pleas for motorists to postpone all non-essential travel. "This is not a storm to be taken lightly," stated NDDOT Director Bill Thompson in a press conference this morning. "Conditions are deteriorating rapidly, and venturing out on the roads is risking your life and the lives of first responders." All major airports in North Dakota, including Bismarck, Fargo, and Grand Forks, have suspended operations until further notice. Hundreds of flights have been canceled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded.

Safety Guidelines and Resources

Residents are strongly advised to:

• Check Road Conditions: Stay updated on the latest road closures and conditions at [ https://www.ndtransportation.gov/ ].
• Winter Vehicle Preparation: Ensure vehicles are equipped with winter tires, a full tank of gas, a snow shovel, blankets, food, water, and a first-aid kit.
• Emergency Kit: Assemble a home emergency kit with enough supplies to last at least 72 hours, including non-perishable food, water, medications, flashlights, and a battery-powered radio.
• Inform Others: Let family or friends know your travel plans and expected arrival time. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle and call 911.
• Stay Informed: Monitor local news and weather broadcasts for updates and advisories.
• Protect Pipes: Take steps to protect pipes from freezing, such as wrapping them with insulation or allowing faucets to drip.

The Red Cross has established emergency shelters in several communities across the state to provide warmth and assistance to those affected by the storm. Details on shelter locations can be found on the Red Cross website ([ https://www.redcross.org/local/north-dakota.html ]).

Looking Ahead

While the worst of the snowfall is expected to taper off by late Sunday, strong winds and blowing snow will continue to pose a threat for several days. The NWS predicts extremely cold temperatures in the wake of the storm, with wind chills plummeting to -30 to -40 degrees Fahrenheit. Residents are urged to prepare for a prolonged period of harsh winter conditions and to prioritize safety during and after the blizzard.