Blizzard warning in Dakotas, Minnesota

FARGO, N.D. – Forecasters have posted a blizzard warning for the eastern Dakotas and western Minnesota as snow, strong winds and plunging temperatures move in.

The storm is creating difficult travel conditions early Wednesday with a large number of schools cancelling classes, including North Dakota State University and Minnesota State University Moorhead.

The North Dakota Department of Transportation issued a no travel advisory for the northern Red River Valley.

Meteorologists expected wind gusts to 50 mph and whiteout conditions, especially in open, rural areas.

Snow accumulations will be low, at 1 inch (2.5 centimetres) to 2 inches (5 centimetres).