The Northern Plains and Rockies are bracing for a destructive blizzard with high winds expected to sweep through the region. A fast-moving winter storm is forecast to bring blizzard conditions and destructive winds across Montana, North Dakota, and northern Minnesota on Thursday, December 18, 2025. Residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions as gusts could reach 70–80 mph in mountain areas, creating whiteout conditions, hazardous travel, and potential power outages.