Minnesota, get ready—this storm is going to be a messy one! A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for parts of northern Minnesota, including North Lake and Cook Counties, where heavy snow and strong winds will make for dangerous driving conditions late Thursday night into Friday morning.
If you’re planning to be on the road Friday morning, expect slow travel, snow-covered roads, and limited visibility. Some areas could see up to 9 inches of fresh snow, and with wind gusts up to 35 mph, blowing and drifting snow will only make things worse. If you don’t have to go out, it might be best to stay put until conditions improve.
Who’s Going to Get Hit the Hardest?
Counties Under the Winter Storm Warning:
✔ North Lake County
✔ Cook County
Toughest Travel Spots:
✔ Grand Portage Reservation
✔ Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness
These areas will see the heaviest snowfall, the strongest winds, and the biggest travel headaches.
Storm Timeline: When Will the Worst Hit?
Thursday Night (9 PM – Midnight):
- Light snow begins, gradually picking up intensity.
- Roads may start getting slick as temperatures drop below freezing.
Overnight (Midnight – 6 AM Friday):
- Heavy snow moves in, dumping 1-2 inches per hour in some areas.
- Winds pick up to 25-35 mph, creating whiteout conditions at times.
- Visibility will be poor, especially on highways and in open areas.
Friday Morning (6 AM – Noon):
- Snow continues falling but will start to taper off by midday.
- Total accumulations between 4 to 9 inches expected.
- The morning commute will be slow and treacherous—expect major delays.
How Much Snow Are We Talking?
Snowfall Totals:
✔ 4 to 9 inches expected by noon Friday.
✔ Heaviest amounts likely near Lake Superior and the Arrowhead Region.
Wind & Visibility Issues:
✔ Gusts up to 35 mph will lead to blowing and drifting snow.
✔ Visibility could drop below a quarter-mile, making travel extremely difficult.
How Will This Affect Your Morning Commute?
Friday Morning Travel Impacts:
✔ Expect slow-moving traffic, icy roads, and near-whiteout conditions.
✔ Bridges and overpasses will be especially slippery—watch out for black ice!
✔ If you can delay your trip, do it! It’ll be much safer later in the day.
Highways & Back Roads:
✔ I-35, US-2, and smaller state highways will be snow-covered.
✔ Snowplows will be out, but roads will likely stay slick.
✔ Drifting snow could make rural roads impassable.
How to Prepare for the Storm
At Home:
✔ Stock up on groceries and essentials now so you don’t have to venture out.
✔ Check your home’s heating system and make sure everything is running smoothly.
✔ Charge your phone and other devices in case of power outages.
If You Must Travel:
✔ Check road conditions before heading out.
✔ Pack an emergency kit with blankets, snacks, water, and a flashlight.
✔ Keep your gas tank at least half full in case of road closures or delays.
For Pets & Animals:
✔ Limit their time outside—wind chills will be brutal!
✔ Provide extra food, water, and warm shelter for outdoor pets and livestock.
What Happens After the Snow?
Friday Afternoon & Evening:
✔ The snow finally stops, but strong winds will continue to blow it around.
✔ Roads will still be slick as temperatures stay below freezing.
Saturday & Sunday:
✔ Cold but dry, with highs in the teens and 20s.
✔ Icy patches will remain on roads, sidewalks, and driveways.
Next Week:
✔ Another potential winter storm is brewing midweek.
✔ More snow? More ice? We’ll be watching closely!
What You Need to Know
✔ Thursday Night: Light snow starts, roads begin to get slick.
✔ Overnight Friday: Heavy snow, strong winds, and whiteout conditions.
✔ Friday Morning: Brutal commute—expect delays, icy roads, and slow-moving traffic.
✔ Friday Afternoon: Snow tapers off, but roads remain slippery.
✔ Saturday & Beyond: Cold and icy, with another storm possible next week.
