Historic Blizzard Warning Issued for Twin Cities and Central Minnesota; Up to 18 Inches of Snow Expected
A historic March winter storm will bring blizzard conditions, 12 to 18 inches of snow, and 45 mph wind gusts to central Minnesota starting Saturday night.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN has issued a Blizzard Warning for a historic March winter storm. The alert is in effect as the region prepares for extreme snow accumulations and dangerous travel conditions.
Affected Areas
The warning covers a broad portion of central Minnesota, including the following counties:
- Stearns
- Benton
- Sherburne
- Isanti
- Chisago
- Wright
- Hennepin
- Anoka
- Ramsey
- Washington
- Carver
- Scott
- Dakota
- Goodhue
Expected Conditions
Residents should prepare for the following hazardous conditions:
- Snow Accumulation: Total snow accumulations between 12 and 18 inches are expected. Some areas in east central Minnesota may see amounts approaching 2 feet.
- Snowfall Rates: Heavy snow is likely with rates of 2 to 2.5 inches per hour late tonight into Sunday morning.
- Wind: Northwest winds will increase to 35 to 45 mph on Sunday, with potential gusts of 50 to 55 mph in the Minnesota River Valley.
- Wintry Mix: A mix of rain, freezing rain, and sleet is expected tonight, potentially resulting in a tenth of an inch of ice and a half inch of sleet before turning to all snow Sunday morning.
- Visibility: Falling and blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility, creating blizzard conditions.
- Infrastructure: The high water content will make the snow very heavy, posing a risk for infrastructure damage and health hazards for those shoveling.
Timeline
The Blizzard Warning is effective from 10:00 PM CDT this evening, March 14, until 4:00 AM CDT Monday, March 16. Conditions are expected to deteriorate late tonight and remain hazardous through Sunday evening.
What You Should Do
- Travel Restrictions: Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, keep a winter survival kit in your vehicle.
- Safety: If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle.
- Information: For the latest road conditions, call 5-1-1 or visit 511mn.org.
Source: NOAA Official Notice
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