Chanhassen, Minnesota – Freezing drizzle is expected to create slick travel conditions across parts of central Minnesota and western Wisconsin Christmas night, prompting a Winter Weather Advisory through Friday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen, the advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. CST Thursday to 9 a.m. CST Friday for areas generally along and north of Interstate 94.
Affected counties in Minnesota include Anoka, Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, and Washington, while Wisconsin counties under the advisory include Polk, Barron, Rusk, Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, and St. Croix. Cities impacted include Blaine, Stillwater, Cambridge, Mora, Hudson, Eau Claire, Menomonie, Chippewa Falls, Rice Lake, and Ladysmith.
Forecasters say freezing drizzle will develop tonight and persist into early Friday, resulting in ice accumulations of a light glaze up to around one tenth of an inch. The ice is expected to form primarily on untreated roads, bridges, sidewalks, and parking lots, increasing the risk of slips and vehicle accidents.
The National Weather Service warns that holiday travel could be impacted, particularly during the overnight hours and early Friday morning. Temperatures are expected to rise later Friday morning, bringing the freezing drizzle threat to an end.
Motorists are urged to slow down, increase following distance, and use caution when traveling. Drivers can check road conditions by calling 511 or visiting 511mn.org in Minnesota and 511wi.gov in Wisconsin.
Winter Weather Advisories are issued when conditions are expected to cause travel difficulties, especially during high-volume travel periods.
