Minnesota — Breath hangs in the air this morning as winter officially arrives across the Twin Cities. Sidewalks crunch under boots, engines strain to turn over, and the cold feels sharp before sunrise.
Temperatures sit near 8 degrees early, climbing only into the upper 20s later today. Sunshine helps briefly, but it does little to soften the cold grip. Winds stay light, yet the air still bites exposed skin.
Attention turns quickly to tonight. Meteorologists are tracking a developing wintry mix across central and southern Minnesota. Snow begins late, then may blend with freezing rain toward early Monday morning. Accumulations stay light, generally under an inch, but impacts could be outsized.
Even small amounts matter this time of year. Slick pavement can form quickly as temperatures hover near freezing. Untreated roads, sidewalks, and bridges could become hazardous before daybreak Monday. Drivers should plan extra time and reduce speeds, especially on I-94, I-35, and I-494.
The best window for travel today remains through the afternoon. Conditions deteriorate later tonight as clouds thicken and precipitation develops. Keep winter kits in vehicles and check road conditions before heading out early Monday.
By Monday afternoon, precipitation tapers and skies slowly clear. Temperatures rebound into the mid to upper 30s, offering a brief thaw. That warming raises another concern: refreezing. Meltwater can freeze again after sunset, creating patches of black ice.
Looking ahead to Christmas week, conditions turn quieter but stay seasonably cold. No major storms appear imminent, yet winter patterns are firmly in place. This system serves as an early reminder that winter travel demands patience and preparation.
For now, enjoy the sunshine while it lasts. Are you seeing snow or slick spots where you live?
Five-Day Outlook: Twin Cities, MN
- Today: Sunny, high near 29
- Tonight: Chance of snow and freezing rain, low near 28
- Monday: Mostly sunny, high near 37
- Tuesday: Partly sunny, high near 31
- Wednesday: Mostly cloudy, high near 36
