Minneapolis residents are bracing for a snowy end to November as a prolonged snowfall event sweeps through central and southern Minnesota, moving on into western Wisconsin. The National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen, MN issued a forecast predicting significant snowfall starting today, with continued flurries likely tonight, potentially accumulating between 2 to 4 inches during the day and an additional inch in the evening. With the snowfall beginning mainly after 8 a.m. and a 90% chance of precipitation, travel impacts are a concern, especially with gusts as high as 30 mph challenging the cleanup efforts.
According to a Hazardous Weather Outlook, which remains in effect until midnight tonight, affected counties include Kandiyohi, Meeker, Wright, Hennepin, Ramsey, and Washington. "Plan on slippery road conditions," the Winter Weather Advisory warns, emphasizing the necessity for travelers to slow down and exercise caution. With snow anticipated to total between 1 and 3 inches, the advisory remains in effect, implying slippery road conditions will likely continue through the night.
Looking ahead, the weather service suggests a brief respite from the wintry blast, with no hazardous weather expected from Sunday through Friday. After today's snow, residents can anticipate a mostly sunny Sunday, with a high near 21 and gusty northwest winds. Relatively calm conditions are also forecasted for early in the week, including a mostly cloudy Monday with a high near 20.
The city's snowfall observers and spotters are encouraged by the National Weather Service to report back on the snowfall amounts. These reports, crucial to updating and refining forecasts, help paint a more accurate picture for the community at large. As Minnesotans prepare for the coming snowy blanket, city services are already in motion, laying plans to address the expected snow-related disruptions. Looking ahead, while temperatures might dip as low as -2 on Wednesday night, warmer air appears to be on the horizon with a high near 24 forecasted for Friday.
