Minnesota — Gray clouds thicken quickly over the Twin Cities as warmer air gives way to a fast-changing winter pattern. Pavement stays damp, wind stiffens, and the calm does not last long.
Meteorologists are now tracking a sharp midweek shift across Minnesota. After an unseasonably mild start, colder air barrels south and sets the stage for snow by Thursday. Minneapolis sees increasing clouds today with highs near the low 40s, followed by a rapid temperature drop tonight.
By Wednesday, sunshine returns briefly, but the cold settles in fast. Highs struggle near 19 degrees, and winds gust up to 30 mph. The air feels biting by afternoon. Roads remain dry for now, but conditions begin to change late Wednesday night.
Snow becomes likely Thursday, especially from midday through evening. Latest models suggest 1 to 3 inches of accumulation in Minneapolis and St. Paul. Snowfall rates stay light to moderate, but steady wind may reduce visibility at times. Travel on I-94, I-35W, and Highway 62 could slow during peak hours.
Temperatures hover near freezing early Thursday, then fall sharply Thursday night. This raises a flash freezing concern as slush refreezes. Black ice may develop quickly on untreated roads and sidewalks.
Friday stays cold and unsettled. Snow showers linger early, with blustery northwest winds driving wind chills into the single digits. By Saturday, skies brighten, but highs barely reach the low teens. Winter firmly reasserts control.
Plan extra travel time Thursday and Friday. Keep winter gear ready, and watch for rapidly changing road conditions after sunset.
How much snow are you seeing in your neighborhood? Share conditions as this winter system moves through.
5-Day Weather Outlook – Minneapolis, MN
- Today: Increasing clouds, high near 43
- Wednesday: Sunny but colder, high near 19
- Thursday: Snow likely, 1–3 inches, high near 33
- Friday: Snow showers early, windy, high near 30
- Saturday: Partly sunny, bitter cold, high near 11
