Minneapolis, Minnesota – Christmas travel planning is picking up across Minnesota as one of the busiest travel periods of the year approaches, and late-week weather could add complications during the Dec 19–Dec 23 window. While temperatures are expected to trend above normal overall, Minnesota remains a high-risk area for winter travel disruptions due to its colder baseline.
Sunday is quiet, but attention quickly turns to mid- and late week as an active storm track sets up across the Upper Midwest. According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, periods of precipitation are possible late Thursday into Friday, with colder air firmly in place across northern and central Minnesota. That pattern supports rain changing to snow or freezing rain, especially overnight and during early morning hours.
For the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro, precipitation type may fluctuate, but even brief icing could have outsized impacts on travel. Major corridors including I-94, I-35W, I-35E, I-394, and Highway 62 could see rapid slowdowns if slick conditions develop during peak holiday departure times. Travelers heading north toward Duluth or west into rural Minnesota should be prepared for more persistent wintry conditions and reduced visibility.
Air travel could also feel impacts if precipitation overlaps with heavy holiday traffic at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport. According to MnDOT, drivers should allow extra time, monitor plow operations, and be prepared for changing road conditions, particularly overnight.
Even with above-normal temperatures expected later in the week, Minnesota’s cold ground temperatures increase the risk of ice formation. Travelers are encouraged to carry winter emergency kits, charge devices, and share travel plans with family or friends.
This Christmas travel stretch across Minnesota is shaping up to be manageable but highly weather-sensitive, making preparation and flexibility essential as holiday traffic ramps up.
