Minneapolis, Minnesota – The Twin Cities are opening 2026 with another familiar winter setup as a band of light snow moves through the region on New Year’s Day, creating slick travel conditions before colder air settles in for the weekend. While snowfall totals will remain modest, impacts could still be noticeable during the morning and early afternoon hours.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities office, light snow will pass through east central Minnesota and western Wisconsin today, with most locations picking up an inch or less of accumulation. Snow is expected to taper off by afternoon as drier air moves in, though untreated roads could remain slippery for several hours.
Minneapolis, St. Paul, Maple Grove, and Bloomington may see brief periods of reduced visibility as the snow moves through. Even light accumulation can quickly coat side streets, parking lots, and bridges, especially with temperatures holding in the 10 to 15 degree range. Pavement temperatures remain cold enough for snow to stick easily.
Travel impacts are expected to be minor but widespread, particularly during midday travel. Drivers are urged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and use caution on ramps and overpasses. Snowfall intensity will generally remain light, but localized heavier bursts are possible.
Behind the snow, colder air locks in for the start of the weekend. Friday stays mostly sunny but cold, with highs again in the low to mid teens. Saturday brings lingering flurries in the morning before skies partially clear, with highs climbing into the upper teens and low 20s.
Looking ahead to Sunday, clouds increase with a chance for snow showers later in the day. Temperatures slowly moderate into early next week, with highs reaching the 30s by Monday.
This light snow marks the primary weather concern for New Year’s Day across the Twin Cities. While totals remain low, slick travel is likely at times. Conditions quiet down later today, but cold weather remains firmly in place as Minnesota settles into the first weekend of 2026.
