Minneapolis, Minnesota – Slick interstates and powerful wind gusts could disrupt travel across Minnesota beginning Thursday, Feb. 26, as a wetter late-winter pattern increases the risk for freezing rain and strong winds through Monday, March 2.
According to NOAA’s 6- to 10-day outlook issued Friday, above-normal precipitation is favored across the Upper Midwest during the Thursday-to-Monday stretch. With temperatures trending near seasonal averages, brief dips toward 32 degrees may allow freezing rain to develop, particularly overnight and during early morning commutes.
Statewide impacts may focus along I-94 from Minneapolis to St. Cloud and I-35 from the Twin Cities north toward Duluth. Elevated ramps and bridges over the Mississippi River could ice first if light accumulation develops. In Minneapolis, stretches near the Lowry Hill Tunnel and flyovers connecting I-394 and I-94 are especially vulnerable when temperatures hover near freezing.
Farther north, including Duluth and along the North Shore, fluctuating surface temperatures may cause rain to mix with freezing rain depending on wind direction off Lake Superior. Wind risk increases late in the period, particularly Sunday into Monday. Gusts between 50 and 60 mph are possible across open areas of western and southern Minnesota.
Strong winds combined with saturated soil could down tree limbs and cause scattered power outages. Residents should secure outdoor items, charge essential devices and allow extra travel time during peak icing windows. The unsettled pattern continues through March 2, and additional advisories may be issued statewide.
