Winter storm warning in effect for large area of Minnesota Thursday due to heavy snowfall

MINNEAPOLIS — A winter storm warning is in effect Thursday as the biggest snowstorm yet this season hits Minnesota. WCCO has issued a NEXT Weather Alert due to impacts from the snowstorm. 

Highs will be in the mid-20s in the Twin Cities with 5-7 inches of accumulation expected from this event.

Several southern counties have also been folded into the warning, with areas from Waconia to Red Wing likely to see a few more inches than the storm track anticipated.

Snow rates will be intense at times in the morning, but will slow down after midday with the system departing by about 9 p.m.

Additionally, dozens of Minnesota school districts are reporting closures and delays. 

Everything should be wrapped up by Friday. There will be a fresh coat of snow on the ground and slightly colder temps, with highs in the upper teens and a little more sunshine.

The weekend looks to stay cold, with highs reaching the lower 20s. Astronomical winter begins on Saturday.

Looking out next week, temperatures will start to warm. The Twin Cities may get back to freezing on Monday, just before Christmas.  

With the warmer air will come clouds and a small chance for a little snow on Monday morning, but it will be dry overall.

Christmas is currently warm, with highs in the upper 30s.

Models are currently projecting a warm final stretch of the year with a mild finish to 2024.