Officials caution drivers during seasons first winter storm

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — It’s snow season, and with the season starting at the busiest travel time of the year, officials want to make sure you are safe.

“Slow down, expect low visibility, expect loss of traction, take your time, build in extra time so that you’re not speeding anywhere, and reduce some of the higher frequency crashes. If you’re traveling any distance this time of year, it’s time to have a winter weather emergency kit in your vehicle that should have everything you need in your car to get you out of a jam or to keep you safe and comfortable in your vehicle until help arrives,” said Skyler McKinley, AAA Regional Director.

Officials also say that drivers typically have a hard time transitioning from fall weather to winter weather. And speeding is something that takes most drivers by surprise.

“When it comes to crashes in general, whether it’s anywhere within the United States, speed is the most common factor in those crashes. Meaning what causes those crashes. It’s not necessarily the road conditions, certainly road conditions can be a factor, but ultimately it’s the speed,” said Sgt. Jesse Grabow, Minnesota State Patrol.

As of this morning, there have been reports of numerous accidents and cars pulled off into the ditch. McKinley says their main concern for today is the wind.

“If you are planning on heading out today, for example, for Thanksgiving as many North Dakotans are, it might behoove you to build some extra time or even wait and delay that trip a little bit just because law enforcement and others are telling us, hey, visibility out there is pretty rough,” said McKinley.

Other travelers who may be taking a plane to their destination, Shawn Dobberstein at Hector Airport says to keep watch of your airline and come in early.

“Bring on a lot of patience. Everybody wants to get to your destination on time with your bag, and that’s what the goal is from here. But, plan ahead, maybe check out what the weather is at the destination you’re going to. If you’re connecting through Minneapolis or Chicago or Denver or Dallas, one of the hubs that we do serve. And just be aware of what’s happening,” said Dobberstein.

As of Tuesday afternoon, the North Dakota Department of Transportation has put a no travel advisory for Cass County.

Stay tuned to our website and social media page at KVRR News for the latest weather updates