Minneapolis, Minnesota – A colder air mass settling over the Upper Midwest ahead of St. Patrick’s Day could turn multiple storm systems into accumulating snow across Minnesota between March 11 and March 17.
According to the National Weather Service Climate Prediction Center, Minnesota falls within a 40-50% probability zone for above-normal precipitation during the 8-14 day period. At the same time, temperatures are favored to trend below normal statewide. That combination significantly increases the likelihood that incoming systems produce measurable snowfall rather than early-spring rain.
In Minneapolis and St. Paul, overnight lows dipping into the 20s and low 30s could allow snow to accumulate on untreated roads and grassy surfaces if moderate to heavy precipitation develops. Along the I-94 corridor from St. Cloud to Alexandria, colder surface temperatures may support steadier accumulation, particularly during overnight and early morning hours. Duluth and much of northern Minnesota face an even higher probability of primarily snow with each passing system.
The broader eastern United States is projected to trend wetter than normal, while California and the Desert Southwest remain drier, sharpening the west-to-east contrast in the national pattern.
Travelers across Minnesota should monitor changing road conditions, especially during early commutes when pavement temperatures are lowest. Even late-season snowfall can create slick travel and reduced visibility. Additional updates are expected as the March 11-17 window approaches and storm timing becomes more defined.
