Minnesota's Winter Weather: What's Coming and Why It Matters

Alert Issued for Several Counties The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for multiple counties, including Stearns County. The advisory is in effect from midnight tonight until 6:00 p.m. Friday.

Snowfall Expected

• Snow begins Thursday night, continuing into Friday.
• Western Wisconsin is expected to receive the heaviest snowfall.
• Central Minnesota will see minimal accumulation.
• St. Cloud has only seen 0.9 inches of snow this January, 3.3 inches below average.
• Seasonal total snowfall remains above average at 25.2 inches so far.

Strong Winds and Dangerous Conditions

• Gusts between 40 and 50 mph expected in western and southern Minnesota.
• Blowing snow will reduce visibility and create hazardous driving conditions.

Travel Advisory

Before heading out, check the Minnesota Department of Transportation website: 511mn.org for the latest road conditions.

Plummeting Temperatures

• Wind chills will drop below zero on Friday.
• Coldest wind chills predicted for Saturday morning in western Minnesota, feeling like -25°F.

Stay Prepared

This advisory highlights the unpredictable nature of Minnesota winters. Stay informed and prepared:

• Shovel snow safely.
• Drive carefully in hazardous conditions.
• Bundle up against the cold.

Minnesotans know how to handle winter's challenges!