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Upper Midwest Braces for Significant Winter Storm with Heavy Snow and Blizzard Conditions

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Upper Midwest Braces for Significant Winter Storm This Weekend

A significant winter storm is anticipated to affect the upper Midwest this weekend, commencing Saturday. Dangerous travel conditions are possible from Saturday through Monday morning. Winter storm warnings and blizzard warnings have been issued for various parts of Minnesota as the region prepares for heavy snow and gusty winds.

Most of Minnesota, excluding the far northern region, is under some form of winter weather alert this weekend.

Timeline of Expected Conditions

Here's a breakdown of what to expect day by day:

  • Saturday: Cloudy conditions are forecast, with a high around 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Snow is expected to begin later in the day, likely nearing sunset.
  • Saturday Night: Snowfall is expected, with periods of heavy snow. Gusty east winds are anticipated, contributing to difficult travel conditions overnight. Thundersnow is a possibility in some areas.
  • Sunday: Snow and blowing snow are forecast, accompanied by gusty winds and heavy snowfall that is expected to diminish by evening. Blowing snow may persist even after the primary snowfall ends due to gusty winds.
  • Monday: Cold temperatures are expected. Difficult travel conditions may continue into Monday.

Snowfall Expectations

Heavy, wet snow is anticipated for southern Minnesota from late Saturday night into Sunday, with snow tapering off Sunday afternoon. Gusty winds could lead to blowing and drifting snow on Sunday.

  • Snowfall rates could reach 2–3 inches per hour during the storm.
  • Certain areas may receive over a foot of snow.
  • The heaviest snowfall is projected for southern Minnesota, near the Twin Cities, and extending into Wisconsin.

Current Weather Alerts

Specific weather alerts have been issued across the region:

  • A winter storm warning is in effect from 4 p.m. Saturday through 4 a.m. Monday for the Twin Cities metro area, covering much of southeastern and central Minnesota. Dangerous travel conditions are possible within this area.
  • A blizzard warning has been issued for regions just outside the Twin Cities metro, stretching across much of southwestern and south-central Minnesota. This area may experience white-out conditions and dangerous travel.