This is Not a Trick: Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Thursday

(KNSI) — It may only be Halloween, but forecasters have issued a winter weather advisory for parts of Minnesota today; however, it has a happy ending.

Widespread rain is developing early this morning and will become heavy at times. As colder air begins to move in, the rain will transition to snow from west to east, with snowfall rates of an inch per hour at times east of St. Cloud into early afternoon. Thundersnow is possible, which could enhance snow rates further. Total accumulations of two to four inches are likely in a narrow band from just north of Mankato through most of the Twin Cities metro area to northwest Wisconsin. Locally higher totals are possible if the heaviest bands remain nearly stationary.

There is a sharp gradient along the edges where snow will accumulate. For now, it appears the St. Cloud metro area should expect less than an inch. St. Cloud could see those higher snow totals if the system shifts northwest by 40 or 50 miles. We could also see absolutely nothing if it moves to the southeast.

Stearns and Benton Counties are not included in the advisory, but Sherburne and Wright Counties are. The advisory is in effect from 8:00 this morning until 3:00 this afternoon. For those traveling east today, slippery roads may be possible.

The bright spot here is that the system will move out by late afternoon, just in time for trick or treating. It may be on the chilly side, but it should be dry.

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