Thanksgiving Travel Hazard: Blowing Snow and Strong Winds to Hit Southern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin

Snowfall up to 3 inches and strong winds expected to affect early Thanksgiving travelers.

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Blowing Snow
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Red Wing, MN – A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for southern Minnesota and parts of western Wisconsin beginning late Tuesday night through Wednesday morning, with forecasters warning of snow, strong winds, and difficult travel conditions as the region prepares for Thanksgiving.

According to the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, rain will transition to snow overnight, spreading from southern Minnesota into western Wisconsin by early Wednesday. Areas under the advisory include Goodhue, Faribault, Freeborn, and Martin counties in Minnesota, and Chippewa, Dunn, Eau Claire, Pepin, and Pierce counties in Wisconsin.

Snow totals are expected to range between 1 and 3 inches, with wind gusts up to 45 mph creating blowing and drifting snow. Forecasters warn that visibility could drop below one-half mile at times, especially on open roads and rural highways.

The Wednesday morning commute may be treacherous, with slick roads and limited visibility across I-35, Highway 52, and U.S. 63. Officials urge motorists to allow extra travel time, slow down, and check 511mn.org or 511wi.gov for updated road conditions.

Conditions are expected to improve by late Wednesday morning, though gusty winds and scattered flurries may persist through the afternoon.