Minneapolis residents are gearing to face a week of unstable weather conditions, starting with a solid rain forecasted for today. According to the National Weather Service's forecast, the city should see "rain with a high near 39" and an east wind blowing at 10 to 15 mph. Precipitation chances stand at an undeniable 100%, with new rainfall amounts "between a half and three quarters of an inch possible."
Tonight will continue to bring similar conditions, as the low hovers around 28, and the northeast wind is around 10 mph. The chance of rain is still high at 90%, with additional precipitation amounts expected to match the daytime figures. As the week progresses, the forecast promises a mix of rain, snow, freezing rain, and sleet, potentially disrupting commutes and travel plans. Tuesday is set to see a switch to lightly blow and accumulate snow in the afternoon with "blustery" conditions courtesy of northwest winds reaching speeds of 15 to 20 mph, and gusts that could spike up to 30 mph. Despite the precipitation chance pegged at 90%, ice accumulation is projected to be minimal.
The rest of the week shows little respite from the capricious weather, with a 50 percent chance of snow forecasted for Tuesday night, followed by mostly sunny but blustery conditions on Wednesday. Temperatures are not expected to cross much beyond the freezing point until later in the week, with Thursday expecting a sunny sky and a high near 37. The erratic pattern continues into the weekend, with a slight chance of snow and rain once more making an appearance on Friday and over the weekend.
Beyond the nuisance of wet and cold conditions, the National Weather Service has issued a Hazardous Weather Outlook cautioning against travel due to possible light snow and strong northwest winds of 30 to 40 mph on Tuesday. Commuters are advised to remain vigilant and prepared for potential impacts. While there will be "no need for SKYWARN spotter activation," snowfall reports will be appreciated. This advisory spans central and southern Minnesota as well as west central Wisconsin, indicating a broad swath of the Midwest grappling with weather hazards this week.
