Winter Storm Brings Snow, Freezing Rain & Dropping Temps
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) — A storm system washing over Minnesota Monday is expected to drop several inches of snow up north and glaze the southern half of the state with mixed precipitation and freezing rain, making for potentially dangerous travel.
The National Weather Service is cautioning drivers to be vigilant as light freezing rain and drizzle falls on the Twin Cities metro and communities to the south. The precipitation is expected to continue through the evening and could turn to ice as temperatures fall overnight and into Tuesday.
A mix of light snow and light freezing rain is expected through the evening. Use caution if traveling. #mnwx #wiwx pic.twitter.com/jkmSqb7DKN
— NWS Twin Cities (@NWSTwinCities) January 2, 2017
In the north, more snow is expected during the evening and overnight. Totals in the northern half of the state could range from 3 to 7 inches, with some towns even getting 8 to 12 inches, according to WCCO meteorologist Chris Shaffer. A Winter Storm Warning is also in effect, as strong winds and blowing snow could cause hazardous driving conditions.
Following the snow and freezing rain, temperatures will plunge Tuesday. By the evening, it'll feel below zero in most of the state, and by Wednesday morning some areas will have wind chill factors nearing 40 below.
The cold temperatures will linger for a few days until a weekend warm up brings the mercury back to the teens and 20s. Average temperature this time of year are in the low 20s.