Minneapolis, Minnesota – A fast-moving band of heavy snow will sweep across much of southern and central Minnesota early Saturday, dropping up to 4 inches in most areas and possibly more than 6 inches in a narrow corridor, creating hazardous travel within hours of onset.
According to the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, Winter Weather Advisories begin as early as 3 a.m. Saturday in western Minnesota, including Stevens, Swift, Chippewa, Kandiyohi, Redwood and Nicollet counties, then expand east by 6 a.m. to include Mankato, Owatonna, Albert Lea, the Twin Cities south metro and parts of western Wisconsin. Snowfall rates may approach 1 inch per hour at times, sharply reducing visibility.
Highways at risk include U.S. 212 near Montevideo, Highway 23 through Willmar, U.S. 169 near Mankato and Interstate 35 from Albert Lea to the Twin Cities. I-94 east toward River Falls and Durand may also turn snow-covered as bands intensify late morning.
MnDOT and WisDOT urge drivers to check 511 services and delay nonessential travel during peak snowfall. Even brief heavy bursts can overwhelm plows and create rapid slick spots.
Snow tapers west to east by Saturday evening, but untreated roads could remain slippery into the night. Additional updates are possible if a heavier 6-inch band locks into place.
