Minneapolis, MN – Drivers along Interstate 94 may face rapidly changing travel conditions next week as sudden snow bursts could develop between Saturday, December 7, and Friday, December 13, according to early guidance from the National Weather Service (NWS). Forecasters warn that several fast-moving disturbances may impact long-distance and holiday traffic from the northern Plains into the Great Lakes.
According to the NWS, a series of quick-moving systems tied to the Alberta Clipper pattern may sweep across portions of the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes. While these disturbances develop rapidly and often appear with limited lead time, they can trigger sharp drops in visibility, slick pavement, and unexpected slowdowns.
The greatest impacts may occur along stretches of I-94 between Fargo and Bismarck, the Twin Cities corridor, Eau Claire, Madison, Milwaukee, and the western edge of Michigan including Benton Harbor, Kalamazoo, and Grand Rapids. These areas sit directly beneath the storm track expected to generate brief yet intense snow bursts next week.
While snowfall totals are uncertain, the NWS notes that even minor bursts can cause travel disruptions, especially during early-morning and evening holiday traffic surges. Rural stretches of I-94 may face sudden visibility drops, while urban segments could see quick pavement icing during heavier bursts.
Forecasters caution that conditions may change rapidly as each disturbance approaches, advising drivers to monitor updated forecasts and plan for possible delays throughout the December 7–13 window.
