Minnesotans are bracing for a wintry mix as the National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen forecasts a potent clipper system to usher in significant snowfall, particularly in central and eastern regions of the state, as well as parts of western Wisconsin. The system is expected to impact the area starting Tuesday afternoon through the evening, with snowfall potentially reaching between 4 to 7 inches along and north of Interstate 94, according to a Hazardous Weather Outlook provided by the National Weather Service.
Additionally, the outlook warns of light freezing rain, which is more likely over western Minnesota on Tuesday morning. With the incoming system, residents should prepare for "strong with gusts of 30 to 45 mph possible", particularly in the southwestern and southern parts of the state. The weather conditions are anticipated to not only create hazardous travel with slippery roads, but could also lead to blizzard conditions if conditions worsen with settled snow and rain.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory that underscores the potential for slippery commutes and treacherous road conditions as mixed precipitation is expected to grace the metro area from 3 PM Tuesday afternoon to 6 AM CST Wednesday.
The Winter Weather Advisory cites "Total snow accumulations between 1 and 3 inches and ice accumulations around a light glaze," with the possibility of wind gusts hitting up to 35 mph. These conditions are poised to disrupt the Tuesday evening commute for counties including Carver, Dakota, Hennepin, Ramsey, Scott, Rice, Steele, and Goodhue.
While the heavy snow is restricted to a narrow band, the weather service stresses preparedness for all areas affected. "Plan on slippery road conditions," advises the NWS Winter Weather Advisory, echoing safety concerns for those needing to travel during this time. Chances for light snow will continue through the week, with "very cold temperatures" expected. Friday night through Saturday night could see wind chill values plummeting to more than 20 below zero.
