Snow, Ice, Rain and Thunderstorms Possible for Minnesota This Weekend

Originally published March 3rd, 2022 at 11:34 a.m.

Updated March 4th at 4:42 p.m.

(KNSI) – Snow, freezing rain, and thunder – oh my! Those are the words from the National Weather Service as it has now issued two winter weather advisories for central Minnesota, and the Storm Prediction Center says severe thunderstorms are possible in the far southeastern part of the state.

For the first winter weather advisory, which goes into effect at midnight Friday night and remains in effect until 9:00 a.m. Saturday, forecasters say freezing rain is expected with ice accumulations of up to a tenth of an inch possible.

The second advisory is in effect from noon Saturday until midnight Saturday night. With the second wave, forecasters expect a mixed bag of precipitation. Total snow accumulations of one to three inches are possible, with ice accumulations of up to a tenth of an inch possible. The winds will also pick up, gusting as high as 35 miles an hour.

They say drivers should plan on slippery road conditions Friday overnight into Saturday by slowing down, allowing plenty of stopping distance, and wearing their seatbelt. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety says to keep the cruise control off, and if it’s raining or snowing, drivers must have their headlights on.

In the St. Cloud area and points to the north, northwest, and southwest, there is a general risk for some claps of thunder here and there. There is a marginal risk for severe weather in areas to the south around Mankato, Red Wing, and Owatonna. There is a slight risk of severe thunderstorms in the Rochester and Albert Lea areas. Wind, hail, and heavy rain are the greatest concerns right now.

The National Weather Service says to stay up to date on the forecast and have a way to check road conditions and get weather warnings this weekend.

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