Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota – A short-lived but potentially dangerous round of winter weather could make roads slick across eastern Minnesota Sunday afternoon, especially along and north of Interstate 94, where sleet and freezing rain may briefly coat untreated surfaces.
According to the National Weather Service Twin Cities, a wintry mix of sleet and freezing rain is expected to develop late Sunday morning and persist into the afternoon, generally lasting two to four hours at any given location. Temperatures will be stuck in the 20s, meaning even light freezing rain could quickly lead to icy conditions on roads, sidewalks, and parking lots. Ice accumulations are expected to remain light, generally under a tenth of an inch, but even a thin glaze can create hazardous travel.
The greatest risk for icing stretches from the Twin Cities metro eastward toward St. Cloud, Cambridge, and into western Wisconsin. Snow may mix in at times, but freezing rain and sleet appear to be the primary concerns. Areas farther south and west are expected to see fewer impacts, though brief slick spots are still possible.
Travel conditions should gradually improve Sunday evening as precipitation tapers, followed by a quieter and milder Monday with highs climbing into the 30s. Forecasters are also monitoring another potential round of light freezing rain on Tuesday, though temperatures near freezing could limit impacts.
Drivers are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and check road conditions before heading out Sunday afternoon. Additional advisories may be issued if icing becomes more widespread.
