Minneapolis, MN – Minnesota is heading into a noticeably colder and potentially snowy holiday period, with NOAA’s Week 3–4 Outlook signaling below-normal temperatures from December 20 through January 2. The timing places both Christmas and New Years under a winter-focused pattern that could influence travel statewide.
According to NOAA, a broad cold dome will settle over Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Iowa, northern Illinois, and the Dakotas, creating conditions favorable for frequent snow chances. With temperatures trending consistently below seasonal averages, even modest precipitation will likely fall as snow.
For precipitation, Minnesota sits largely within an equal-chances zone, meaning there is no strong signal toward wetter or drier conditions. However, because temperatures will be cold enough for snow, forecasters expect several opportunities for light to moderate accumulations through the Dec. 20–Jan. 2 window. Northern Minnesota, including the Iron Range and Arrowhead regions, may see enhanced totals due to lake-effect and clipper systems.
Residents in the Twin Cities, Duluth, Rochester, St. Cloud, and Mankato should prepare for periodic slick roads, reduced visibility, and quick bursts of accumulation, especially around Christmas weekend. A reinforcing cold shot is also possible near New Years, which may increase the chances of a snowy start to 2026.
Travelers heading in or out of the state should stay alert for timing-sensitive impacts, as even minor systems could create delays under the colder pattern.
Forecasters will refine system-specific details as the holiday period approaches.
