Mankato, MN – A prolonged winter storm is set to impact southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin beginning Friday evening, bringing heavy snow and hazardous travel through Saturday night, according to the National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen.
The Winter Storm Warning takes effect at 6 p.m. Friday for counties including Redwood, Brown, Nicollet, Le Sueur, Rice, Blue Earth, Waseca, Steele, Martin, Faribault, and Freeborn, lasting until midnight Saturday night. In Goodhue County, the warning extends until 6 a.m. Sunday.
Forecasters expect 7 to 10 inches of snow across much of southern Minnesota, with the heaviest bands developing near the Interstate 90 corridor. Areas from Redwood Falls to Cannon Falls may see totals approaching 10 inches, while lighter accumulations are likely in the Twin Cities metro and points north.
The storm is expected to make Friday night travel extremely dangerous, especially on I-90, I-35, and Highway 14. Officials warn that bridges and overpasses could become slick first, and visibility may drop quickly during heavier bursts of snow.
Residents are urged to avoid unnecessary travel, keep emergency supplies in vehicles, and check 511mn.org for updated road conditions. The National Weather Service advises allowing extra travel time and greater following distance as the snow continues through Saturday evening.
