Twin Cities, Minnesota — Freezing rain across Minnesota could create slick roads and light ice accumulation tonight into Saturday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities/Chanhassen, a Winter Weather Advisory is in effect as rain redevelops Friday afternoon while temperatures gradually fall from west to east across the state. Areas dropping below 32°F are expected to see freezing rain and ice buildup on untreated roads, sidewalks, and elevated surfaces.
Forecasters say ice accumulation between 0.1 and 0.2 inches is most likely across southwest Minnesota extending toward the St. Cloud area, including communities near Marshall, Redwood Falls, Willmar, Hutchinson, and Alexandria. These amounts can be enough to create hazardous travel, especially during the evening commute.
Farther east, including much of the Twin Cities metro and areas along the I-35 corridor, ice totals are expected to be lighter, with trace to around 0.1 inch possible. While lower, even thin ice can make untreated roads and bridges slippery.
The freezing rain is expected to continue into the overnight hours before gradually tapering off early Saturday. As the system exits east, forecasters say a brief period of light snowfall is possible before precipitation ends.
Transportation officials warn that untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks could become slick quickly, particularly after sunset as temperatures continue to drop.
Commuters and evening travelers are encouraged to slow down, allow extra stopping distance, and check local road conditions before heading out.
The advisory remains in effect through Saturday morning, with conditions expected to improve as precipitation ends and road crews continue treatment operations.
This weather setup may also affect early morning travel and weekend plans for students, shift workers, and overnight commuters across the region.
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