Winter Storm Warning, Advisory Issued for Central Minnesota

(KNSI) – The National Weather Service has upgraded an existing watch to a Winter Storm Warning and Winter Weather Advisory for central Minnesota.

Meteorologists predict a powerful clipper system will bring heavy snow and strong winds.

The snow is forecast to begin early Tuesday afternoon and spread southeast into western Wisconsin by Tuesday evening. The heaviest snow is expected to fall from Interstate 94 to the north, where a narrow band could see 4 to 7 inches of accumulation with winds gusting as high as 40 mph. The combination of snow and wind will create hazardous travel conditions, particularly during the Tuesday evening commute.

The storm prompted a Winter Storm Warning to be issued between noon Tuesday through 6:00 a.m. Wednesday in nine counties, including Benton, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, Morrison, Sherburne, and Todd. Cities under the warning include Sauk Rapids, Princeton, Mora, Elk River, Long Prairie, and Little Falls.

Meanwhile, during the same timeframe, a Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for Stearns and Douglas counties. These areas can expect 3 to 6 inches of snow, a possible light glaze of ice, and wind gusts up to 45 mph.

The National Weather Service says gusty winds could bring down tree branches, further adding to the hazardous conditions. The snow is expected to taper off from west to east during Wednesday morning.

If you must travel, the National Weather Service recommends keeping an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Drivers should slow down and use caution.

For the latest road conditions, call 511 or visit 511mn.org.

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