Winter Storm Warning Issued for Southern Minnesota

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of southern Minnesota. The alert is effective from 1:00 AM Sunday, March 15, until 7:00 AM CDT Monday, March 16.

Affected Areas

The warning specifically impacts the following counties in Minnesota:

• Martin
• Faribault
• Freeborn

Expected Conditions

A powerful winter storm is on track to bring extreme snow accumulations and hazardous travel conditions.

• Snow and Sleet: Total snow accumulations between 6 and 10 inches are expected, along with sleet accumulations between one-tenth and two-tenths of an inch.
• Wind: Northwest winds are forecast to gust as high as 50 mph.
• Visibility: Widespread blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility, creating periods of blizzard conditions.
• Impacts: The snow is expected to be wet and very heavy, which may lead to infrastructure damage and poses a health hazard for those shoveling. Travel could become very difficult to impossible, particularly affecting the Monday morning commute.

Timeline

The Winter Storm Warning begins at 1:00 AM Sunday and is scheduled to expire at 7:00 AM CDT Monday. The heaviest snow across the broader region is expected Saturday evening and overnight, with the highest wind impacts occurring throughout Sunday.

What You Should Do

Residents are advised that travel may become impossible. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. For the latest road conditions, call 5 1 1 or visit 511mn.org.