Blizzard — Wilkin, Minnesota

2026-01-18 · Wilkin, Minnesota

Event narrative

Several 3hr periods of whiteout conditions in falling snow and blowing snow from late morning into the afternoon, along with intermittent whiteout conditions into the evening at mesonet site MN054 att Tenney, MN. Winds frequently gusting 35 to 41 mph.

Wider weather episode

A strong upper trough moved across the Northern Plains and into northwest Minnesota, bringing strong winds, light snow, and blizzard conditions. The initial area of light snow ended during the early morning of January 18 as a strong cold front moved into the region. Post frontal snow showers along with strong winds behind the front contributed to widespread whiteout conditions primarily across northeast North Dakota and the Red River Valley of northwest Minnesota. Strongest wind gusts were 50 to 57 mph. A no travel advised was issued by MNDOT in far northwest Minnesota due to whiteout conditions.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1316839. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.