Community adjusts to winter life
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The National Weather Service is reporting official numbers for the snowfall from the recent winter storm, which included a total of 11 inches in Minot. Measurements taken by the North Central Research and Extension Center recorded a total of 14.8 inches from Tuesday through Friday morning.
Totals from other communities in the region included Williston with 11 inches, 13 inches in Surrey, 14 inches in Harvey, Lansford 12.1 inches and Stanley setting the highest total in the state with 15.5 inches. Bismarck reportedly set an official record with a total of 8.5 inches on Thursday.
Many in Minot were motivated by the recent gloomy forecasts to swap out their summer tires and change the oil in their snowblowers in anticipation of the storm. Unfortunately, others were caught flat footed by the unwelcome transformation of the region into a winter wonderland. The abrupt transition in the seasons caused a rush to hardware stores for shovels and window scrapers and to mechanics and tire shops for a fresh set of winter ready wheels.
One such establishment to benefit from the mad scramble for winter preparedness was Harry's Tire Shop in Minot. Kelly Burgardt, the manager at Harry's, said business has been bustling the last few days with around 60 sets of tires being swapped out in the last 48 hours.
"It gets like this every year. As soon as we get snow on the ground, it always goes crazy." Burgardt said.
Those that weren't able to make it to their local tire shop likely found themselves slipping and sliding around, as the reality of winter driving often involves a lot less rubber hitting the road than most are used to. The lower traction caused by slush, snow and ice requires a shift in mindset from drivers in order to conquer situations like snow-covered hills and correctly utilize features like anti-lock brakes. The American Automotive Association recommends drivers use a lighter touch on the gas pedal, reduce speeds, allow more time for braking and increase follow distance to avoid losing control on icy roads.
The winter storm was an unwelcome sight to area farmers and ranchers as well, some of whom are still harvesting crops. The latest crop report from the National Agricultural Statistics Service shows that 45% of North Dakota's corn, 85% of soybeans, 93% of flaxseed and 97% of canola crops have been harvested as of Monday, just before the onset of the storm.
While the state is forecasted to be spared from further snow for now, Arctic air coming down from Canada will be bringing temps down considerably for this time of year heading into next week.
"It's going to be 20-25 degrees colder than the average for this time of year." James Telkin, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Bismarck said, "Winds will be a little breezy on Halloween, but not terribly bad."