Blizzard — East Polk, Minnesota

1997-01-09 to 1997-01-10 · East Polk, Minnesota

Wider weather episode

An Alberta Clipper raced across northeast North Dakota and then stalled over the Red River Valley, due to a blocking low pressure system over the Great Lakes. Strong winds and snow produced blizzard conditions across the area. A total of 8.8 inches of snow was reported in Grand Forks, while Fargo reported 7.5 inches. The heaviest snow fell across the Red River Valley between Crookston and Moorhead. Many schools across the area were closed on the 9th and 10th. Transportation officials closed Interstate 94 from Moorhead to Sauk Centre, US Highway 10 from Moorhead to Detroit Lakes, and US Highway 2 from East Grand Forks to Crookston. Despite the road closures, many motorists did attempt to travel, and had to be rescued during dangerous rescue attempts. One man, who left his stranded car, died in the storm.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5586703. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.