Minnesota greets the morning with biting wind and drifting clouds, as loose snow skims across roads and sidewalks in the Twin Cities. The air stings exposed skin, and wind chills sit well below zero, setting a harsh tone for the days ahead.
According to the National Weather Service, northwest winds remain strong early, keeping wind chills near 15 below at times. Actual temperatures struggle to climb out of the teens today, even with some sunshine breaking through. Blustery conditions continue to impact drivers on exposed routes, especially along east–west roadways.
Later today, clouds increase ahead of the next winter system. Light snow develops by Thursday, with chances rising through the afternoon and evening. Accumulations remain modest for now, but even light snow will reduce visibility as winds stay active. Drivers should plan extra time and expect slick pavement, especially during evening travel.
Thursday night turns colder as snow tapers. Temperatures dip into the low 20s, then fall sharply again by Friday. Another round of snow is possible Friday, with patchy blowing snow reducing visibility during the morning and midday hours. While totals stay limited, drifting snow may briefly cover lanes and shoulders.
By Friday night, Arctic air tightens its grip. Lows plunge near zero, and wind chills fall well below zero again. Any daytime melting refreezes quickly, raising the risk of black ice on untreated roads and parking lots.
The weekend stays locked in winter. Saturday remains mostly cloudy and cold, with highs near 7 degrees. Sunday brings a slight snow chance and continued cold, keeping outdoor plans limited and travel cautious.
Looking ahead to Jan 19–23, NOAA outlooks suggest below-normal temperatures persist across the Upper Midwest, while precipitation trends near normal.
Five-Day Outlook for Minneapolis–St. Paul, Minnesota
Thursday: Chance of snow, high near 33
Friday: Snow likely, high near 28
Saturday: Mostly cloudy, high near 7
Sunday: Slight snow chance, high near 13
Monday: Partly sunny, high near 10
