National Weather Service Warns of Difficult Travel Conditions in Twin Cities

A significant winter storm is expected to bring several inches of snow to the Twin Cities metro area and southern Minnesota, leading to difficult travel conditions as areas of blowing snow reduce visibility and make roads slippery. The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for the entire metro area, with 3 to 5 inches of snow forecasted to fall.

Goodhue County, located just southeast of the metro, could see up to 8 inches of snow, while Rice, Waseca, Steele, and Freeborn counties in south-central Minnesota are expected to receive 4 to 6 inches. The weather service warns that these totals may change, and residents should stay informed for updates.

A winter storm warning is also in effect from Thursday night until Saturday morning, calling for 4 or more inches of snow across most of southern Minnesota. The affected areas include Worthington, Albert Lea, Mankato, Rochester, Red Wing, and other surrounding communities.

While the exact amount of snowfall and heaviest accumulation spots are uncertain, there is high certainty that windchills will reach as low as 20 to 30 degrees below zero by Saturday morning and 30 to 40 degrees below zero by Sunday morning. The National Weather Service advises residents to prepare for hazardous travel conditions and take necessary precautions to stay safe.

The long-duration storm moving into the state late Thursday marks a significant shift in winter weather patterns, with temperatures expected to fall to near 10 below zero by Saturday night as stiff northwest winds make it feel even colder. Winter has finally arrived in Minnesota, bringing with it challenging conditions that residents should be prepared for.

Stay tuned to local news and updates from the National Weather Service for further information on this significant winter storm.

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