Minneapolis, Minnesota – Drivers across Minnesota could face sudden drops in visibility and dangerous crosswinds by Thursday night as a powerful storm system pushes strong winds and a mix of rain and snow into the region before a potentially larger weekend snowstorm.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, a High Wind Watch is in effect for much of Minnesota Thursday night into Friday morning. Sustained winds between 30 and 40 mph are expected, with gusts reaching 60 mph in cities including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Mankato, Willmar, and Marshall. Snow showers developing Thursday evening could combine with those winds to create rapid visibility drops and hazardous highway travel.
Snow accumulation is expected mainly across east-central Minnesota and western Wisconsin, including Eau Claire, Ladysmith, and Rice Lake, where totals of 3 to 5 inches are possible by Friday morning. Snowfall rates could exceed 1 inch per hour at times, increasing the risk of slick roads along Interstate 94 and regional highways connecting the Twin Cities to western Wisconsin.
Wind gusts near 60 mph may also trigger blowing snow across open rural areas of southern and western Minnesota. Even light snow could drift across roads and reduce visibility for drivers along highways such as U.S. 169 and portions of Interstate 90.
Forecasters are also monitoring a second system expected Saturday night into Sunday that could produce heavier snow. Current projections place the highest potential for 8 inches or more from southern Minnesota toward the Interstate 90 corridor, including cities like Mankato and Albert Lea.
Travelers are urged to monitor updates closely, charge mobile devices, and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of strongest winds and snowfall. Additional winter weather alerts may be issued as confidence in the storm track increases.
