Blizzard conditions move out of North Dakota, latest on losses for Ranchers

(Bismarck, ND) -- Blizzard conditions that shut down much of North Dakota are clearing up.

The blizzard warning that covered much of the state expired Thursday night after a third straight day of gusty winds and blowing snow. The National Weather Service says Friday's forecast includes patchy blowing snow statewide. You can find out more about the forecast for the Fargo-Moorhead area here.

While snow totals were as high two to three feet in some areas, Fargo escaped the blizzard.

As for early estimates on ranchers, limited losses during North Dakota's blizzard have been reported to this point.

The storm slammed the state in the middle of calving season this week, leaving newborns especially vulnerable to the weather. Cattle and calf deaths during the storm have been rated mostly average to light, but the state Agriculture Department says it will have better information now that blizzard conditions are clearing up.

Weather and agriculture officials are still assessing the effect of the moisture on widespread drought conditions.