Blizzard — Pembina, North Dakota

2026-01-18 · Pembina, North Dakota

Event narrative

Whiteout conditions reported at K2C8 AWOS at Cavalier, ND, with winds gusting 35 to 50 mph.

Wider weather episode

A strong upper trough moved across the Northern Plains, 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 in blowing snow primarily in northeast North Dakota and the Red River Valley of northwest Minnesota. Strongest wind gusts were 50 to 57 mph. Interstate 29 was closed from Grand Forks, ND to the International Border during due to whiteout conditions. A no travel advised was also issued over parts of northeast ND by NDDOT.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1316951. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.