Blizzard Warning Issued for Southern Cook and Southern Lake Counties; Heavy Snow and Whiteout Conditions Expected

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Duluth has issued a Blizzard Warning for portions of northeastern Minnesota. This alert indicates that blizzard conditions are expected, creating significant hazards for residents and travelers in the region. The alert is classified with a severity level of extreme and a high certainty of occurrence.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically covers Southern Cook and Southern Lake Counties. This geographic area includes the Tribal Lands of the Grand Portage Reservation.

Expected Conditions

Meteorologists forecast total snow accumulations between 6 and 13 inches. Wind gusts are expected to reach as high as 45 mph. These conditions will lead to visibilities dropping below one-quarter mile due to falling and blowing snow.

Additional details indicate that snowfall rates will be particularly intense on Thursday evening, potentially exceeding 2 inches per hour. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds may put significant weight on tree limbs, leading to downed power lines and sporadic power outages. Whiteout conditions are expected to make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.

Timeline

The Blizzard Warning is effective from 1:00 PM CDT Thursday, March 12, until 1:00 PM CDT Friday, March 13. The most hazardous conditions are expected to impact both the Thursday evening and Friday morning commutes.

What You Should Do

Authorities advise that travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If travel is absolutely necessary, ensure you have a winter survival kit in your vehicle. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle to remain safe and visible to rescuers. For the latest road conditions in Minnesota, residents should call 511 or visit www.511mn.org.