Nov 06, 2008 - 04:06:05 CST
Blizzard conditions could stir more than 10 inches of snow through Friday during the state's first major winter system.Sam Walker, a meteorologist from the Bismarck office of the National Weather Service, said Wednesday that Bismarck-Mandan is expected to see 4 inches of snow between midnight and 6 a.m. today and another 21/2 inches by noon today.
Walker said 2 more inches would arrive this afternoon and another 3 inches is expected overnight through Friday morning.
"The heaviest band is hard to pinpoint. It could be about 50 miles around Bismarck," Walker said.
Although temperatures will range between the 20s and lower 30s, the high wind gusts could translate into an icy wind chill of 10 degrees above zero.
The wet, heavy snow and strong winds could create hypothermia conditions if one is not prepared.
Walker said rain and thunderstorms were expected to precede the snow early this morning.
The snow was forecast to arrive after midnight this morning.
That will be coupled with poor visibility. "We'll see sustained winds of 30 to 35 mph and wind gusts up to 45 mph or more," Walker said.
"It will reduce visibility to zero at times through Friday. ... More than likely, some roads will be closed," he said.
Walker said he expects no travel will be advised in some areas.
Lt. Nick Sevart of the Burleigh County Sheriff's Department advised no travel when severe conditions occur unless it's an emergency.
He asks that drivers avoid unnecessary risks if conditions become poor. "If someone gets lost out there, we put our own people at risk.
"If you are going to do any traveling, be sure to put in a (winter survival) kit and a couple of extra blankets," Sevart advised.
The North Dakota Highway Patrol and the State Department of Transportation jointly decide if a no-travel advisory is issued or when to close a roadway.
The agencies ask drivers not to ignore a no-travel advisory.
Billie Jo Lorius, communications specialist for the North Dakota Department of Transportation, said when conditions are too poor for snow plow operators to see, they will be pulled off the road for their own safety until conditions improve. "We don't do that too often," she said.
Common sense and gauging road conditions are important in operating your vehicle.
"Even when the roads are not closed, it doesn't mean it's safe," Lt. Mike Gerhart of the North Dakota Highway Patrol said.
Gerhart said the troopers will do everything in their power to save a motorist whose life is in danger, but agreed that it's an extra risk for emergency personnel in blizzard conditions.
Gerhart said if emergency travel is necessary, notify someone of the route you are taking and the time you expect to arrive.
Lorius asked that motorists not crowd the snow plows.
"It will pull over periodically to allow people to pass." She warned there is too much snow fog and the driver is seated too high to see a motorist trying to pass them. "They can't see you and you can't see them."
Bismarck City Emergency Manager Gary Stockert said it's always a good idea to make your cell phone part of your winter survival kit. "Before you travel, always check the weather conditions. Call 511 and let people know what your travel plans are."
He said early projections for this storm indicate there will be zero visibility.
Stockert said your winter kit should include:
n A shovel and sand in case you get stuck.
n High-energy snack foods such as nuts, candy and trail mix that are enough to last you and your family for at least a day.
n Extra clothing, hats, socks, mittens and blankets.
n Ropes or chains to pull you out from a ditch.
n Jumper cables.
It's also advised you carry a supply of water and paper towels.
"Don't leave home without a full tank of gas," Stockert said. He said that will allow you to turn on the heat periodically if you stall or become stuck.
If you stall, it is best to remain with your vehicle.
"People think they can get to their destination and often walk around in circles," Stockert said.
Stockert warned against falling asleep in the vehicle. This prevents freezing to death and carbon monoxide poisoning. He advised checking tail lights to ensure they not blocked up with snow or lodged in a snow bank.
Stockert said motorists should also bring a red flag or portable light so passing motorists will see the stranded vehicle.
To gauge road conditions, call 511 or check the Web site at www.dot.nd.gov.
(Reach reporter LeAnn Eckroth at 250-8264 or leann.eckroth@;bismarcktribune.com.)
Robert Benson wrote on Nov 6, 2008 6:59 AM:
It would also be good to ensure that tail pipes are not blocked in addition to tail lights. That way you don't force exhaust fumes back into the car. Also, I blocked exhaust system will cause the engine to quit running thereby losing your heater. "
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