High winds and blowing snow create hazardous travel in Stutsman County

A Winter Weather Advisory remained in effect across central and parts of northwest North Dakota until 3:00 p.m. on Jan. 16, producing hazardous travel conditions across Stutsman County. Light snow combined with northwest wind gusts as high as 60 miles per hour, creating widespread blowing snow that at times cut visibility to a half-mile or less.

Local officials warned the combination of wind and snow made county roads extremely slippery and that impacts to travel would continue through the afternoon. For residents who drive gravel grid roads, farm-to-market routes or rely on tight schedules for work and medical appointments, the conditions translated into higher risk on the road and the need to delay nonessential travel.

Beyond immediate travel danger, such storms have public health implications for rural communities. Blowing snow and poor visibility increase the likelihood of traffic crashes and vehicle strandings, which in turn can delay emergency medical response and complicate access to outpatient clinics and pharmacy services. For people who live alone, older adults, and households without dependable winter vehicles, power and heating interruptions tied to severe winter weather can compound the risk of hypothermia and other cold-related illness.

The storm also highlighted longstanding equity concerns in rural emergency planning. Households with limited transportation options, shift workers who cannot easily reschedule, and low-income families who lack extra heating fuel or cell phone access are disproportionately affected when roads become impassable. Community health depends on anticipating these disparities through targeted outreach, coordinated transport plans for urgent care, and clear communication channels that reach residents without broadband or smart devices.

Looking ahead, county residents can expect National Weather Service forecasts and local advisories to remain the primary sources of information during winter storms. Officials advised avoiding unnecessary travel while conditions persisted and following any local road closures or emergency notices. Neighborhood networks and community organizations often play a crucial role in checking on people who are homebound or live in outlying areas.

The Jan. 16 advisory is a reminder that severe winter weather in Stutsman County is both a transportation and public health challenge. Preparedness efforts that prioritize equitable access to services, reliable road clearance, and clear emergency communications will reduce harms when the next wind-driven storm moves in.