A potent late winter storm brings freezing rain, sleet, and snow, impacting travel across the region.
Category: Science
A powerful late winter storm is set to sweep across Minnesota and western Wisconsin, bringing a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow that will significantly impact travel conditions. With various weather alerts in place, residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions starting Wednesday night through Thursday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Steele, Dodge, and Olmsted counties, effective from 10 PM Wednesday until 10 AM Thursday. This advisory warns of icy roads and potentially dangerous driving conditions during the Thursday morning commute.
In addition, a Winter Storm Warning has been activated for Goodhue County, beginning at midnight Thursday and lasting until noon. This area is expected to experience worse road conditions compared to the counties slightly south, underscoring the variability of this storm system.
According to KIMT Storm Alert Weather, just a one-degree difference in surface temperature can mean the difference between rain and freezing rain, highlighting the precarious nature of the upcoming weather. As temperatures hover around the freezing mark, travelers should remain vigilant.
The storm's impact will not be limited to Minnesota. A strong spring system is expected to bring a variety of precipitation types to portions of both Minnesota and Wisconsin, with the heaviest impacts predicted across eastern Minnesota and west-central Wisconsin. The National Weather Service noted that icing amounts could reach around a quarter of an inch, which could lead to slick roads, downed tree branches, and potential power outages.
The forecast indicates that central Minnesota will primarily see snow and sleet, whereas the southern regions, including the Twin Cities metro, can expect a mix of freezing rain, sleet, and snow. The storm's progression suggests that the most hazardous travel impacts will occur late Wednesday night into Thursday morning.
Travelers should anticipate total snow accumulations of up to one inch, with sleet accumulations around three-quarters of an inch and ice accumulations reaching a quarter of an inch. Winds are also expected to gust as high as 30 mph, adding to the potential for hazardous conditions on the road.
As the storm approaches, light snow showers are likely to begin after 6 PM Wednesday, with a brief round of snow expected to hit the region around 7 PM. This initial wave of snow is anticipated to produce less than two inches of accumulation. The main round of snow is expected to start in the pre-dawn hours on Thursday, causing slippery conditions for the morning commute.
In southeastern Wisconsin, particularly southeast of US-63, ice accumulations of up to a quarter of an inch are possible, which raises concerns for road safety. The National Weather Service has emphasized that roads, especially bridges and overpasses, will likely become slick and hazardous, necessitating caution for drivers.
Rochester, in the heart of the storm's path, will be under a Winter Weather Advisory, with the potential for icy patches on roads, especially north of Interstate 90. The forecast predicts a rain-sleet-snow mix developing late Wednesday evening, with freezing rain expected to emerge after midnight.
As the storm progresses, high temperatures are projected to reach the upper 40s on Thursday, with brisk east winds contributing to the mix of rain and snow. Showers and thunderstorms are also expected throughout Thursday afternoon, adding complexity to the weather situation.
Looking ahead, the storm is expected to taper off by Friday morning, but residents should be prepared for residual slick spots due to falling temperatures. The National Weather Service is also monitoring another storm system that could affect the region as we approach Easter weekend.
In the aftermath of this storm, it’s important for residents to stay informed about changing weather conditions and to plan accordingly for travel disruptions. With the potential for power outages and hazardous road conditions, having an emergency kit and a plan in place is recommended.
As this late winter storm bears down, the region braces for a messy mix of weather that could complicate travel plans for many. Residents are advised to monitor updates from local weather services and heed any alerts issued by the National Weather Service.
The upcoming days will be a test of patience for many commuters, as the combination of rain, sleet, and snow creates a wintry mix that’s not just inconvenient but potentially dangerous. With the storm expected to wrap up by Friday morning, the hope is that warmer weather will soon follow, providing a much-needed reprieve from winter conditions.