Minneapolis faces a wall of fog and a deluge of rain this Christmas week, according to multiple reports from the National Weather Service. Visibility dropped to a hazardous low Saturday morning, prompting a Dense Fog Advisory that remained in effect until 11 AM CST. Drivers were warned of "visibility one quarter mile or less in dense fog," specifically in east-central, south-central, and southeast Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin. Officials advised caution, urging motorists to slow down and use headlights.
The weather outlook isn't just about limited visibility. It seems the fog was only a prelude to an extended bout of inclement weather, as the forecast calls for "Rain likely, mainly between 10 pm and 5 am," with a "Chance of precipitation is 60%," affecting areas including Minneapolis and spreading across the region. A steady stream of rain is predicted to soak the city Sunday into Christmas Day and beyond, with the National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen, MN indicating "Chance of precipitation is 100%" and new precipitation amounts of up to three-quarters of an inch possible by Monday night, according to their latest report.
Moreover, there's more than just rain on the agenda. By Tuesday, the blend of precipitation is likely to include snow, further complicating conditions for travelers and merry-makers alike. "A wintry mix of rain and snow will be possible across central and southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin Tuesday and Wednesday," states the Hazardous Weather Outlook.
The early part of the week won't be the end to the city’s soggy saga. A chance of rain and snow mix lingers into Wednesday, with "a slight chance of rain between 3 pm and 5 pm, then a slight chance of snow after 5 pm." This weather dance between rain and snow sets a dreary stage for post-holiday travel and activities throughout the region. Up until Thursday, partial sun is the only respite before temperatures dip even further, according to the National Weather Service forecast. Travelers and locals alike, wrapped tight in their winter gear, should prepare for a notable chill as low temperatures drop to as low as 19 degrees on Thursday night.
With each advisory and forecast update, the message to Minneapolis locals remains clear: stay vigilant on the roads and brace for a potentially white-knuckle drive this holiday week. Minneapolis residents and visitors should continue to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and take necessary precautions as they navigate through this treacherous holiday season weather.
