Blizzard warnings in Northwest Minnesota, winter weather advisories across the state

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Multiple weather hazards are impacting the region this afternoon, with blizzard and winter storm warnings in effect alongside winter weather advisories. Expect strong winds, blowing snow and rapidly falling temperatures.

After several days of above-freezing temperatures and snowmelt, winter is blasting back in on Thursday, reminding us that it’s still December. Multiple winter weather hazards cover the state with blizzard, winter storm and high wind warnings, along with winter weather advisories, in effect through Thursday night.

Accumulating snowfall will be largely confined to northeastern Minnesota, where 2 to 6 inches are possible. Farther southeast, totals are expected to remain under 1 inch.

Northwesterly winds have been gusting over 40 mph with some gusts reaching 50 mph. The strong winds are causing blowing snow that can sharply reduce visibility, especially in open and rural areas. 

Breezy conditions are expected to continue through Thursday night before easing overnight, though winds could still gust over 30 mph into Friday morning.

One concern is rapidly falling temperatures, which will drop below freezing and could create flash-freeze conditions on wet roads. Temperatures have been falling throughout Thursday and are expected to remain below zero through Friday.

This fast-moving system is expected to clear the state by overnight. 

Weather and Climate News

Updraft® - Minnesota Weather News

Mandy Thalhuber

Author

Multiple weather hazards are impacting the region this afternoon, with blizzard and winter storm warnings in effect alongside winter weather advisories. Expect strong winds, blowing snow and rapidly falling temperatures.


NOAA via Pivotal Weather

Expected snowfall forecast for northwestern Minnesota

National Weather Service

Wind gust forecast for northwestern Minnesota

NOAA via College of DuPage Weather

Falling temperatures at MSP airport for Thursday

Forecast precipitation Thursday 12 p.m. to midnight

Winter blast ahead: Strong winds, accumulating snow and freezing temperatures

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