Sunshine and a brisk 25°F at Minneapolis-Saint Paul early Thursday are basically the calm before a very rowdy stretch of weather. Milder air rides in on strong southerly winds this afternoon, then a tight pressure gradient cranks up potentially damaging northwest gusts late Thursday night into early Friday.
Afternoon Rain And Gusts
Early this afternoon brings a slight chance of light snow, with precipitation flipping to rain as temperatures climb into the mid-40s and top out near 46°F. South winds are expected to ramp up to around 5 to 20 mph with gusts near 35 mph. Rainfall should stay on the lighter side, with most neighborhoods looking at less than a tenth of an inch.
High Wind Warning And Commute Risks
A High Wind Warning went up early Thursday for much of the metro, locking in on the late-night through Friday morning window when gusts could roar to 55 to 60 mph. According to the National Weather Service, those winds may down trees and power lines and make travel hazardous, especially for high-profile vehicles.
Weekend Snow Outlook
The slower-moving system arriving late Saturday into Sunday is the main snow maker, with forecasters eyeing bands of wet snow that could pile up 6 to 13 inches in parts of the southern and central metro. We first flagged this risk in Wednesday's storm preview, and officials still warn that the exact placement of the heavy snow band may shift as the storm track evolves. Where the bullseye lands, drivers should expect reduced visibility and blowing snow.
How To Prepare
Today is the day to lock things down: secure loose outdoor items, charge phones, and freshen up emergency kits so you are ready for scattered power outages if trees hit lines. Try to avoid nonessential travel from late Thursday into Friday morning, and check MnDOT 511 and Metro Transit alerts before you head out.
