Snow and blizzard conditions possible tomorrow, then bitter cold

Posted: 02/03/2021 at 10:58 AM in Weather

Snow to a wintry mix moves in later tonight, changing to snow early Thursday. Travel conditions will deteriorate Thursday. By later afternoon, blustery northwest gusting 30 to 40 mph will cause blowing and drifting snow, and possible ground blizzard conditions.

Details continue to evolve on the storm track and strength. Thus, expect a few more changes to the forecast as Thursday approaches.

A blast of Arctic air then moves in for the weekend. Wind chills will likely be dangerously cold at times, especially Sunday and Monday mornings. Temperatures will likely stay abnormally cold through the new work week.

Late Tonight - Thu Night: Wintry Mix to Snow, Then Windy

  • What: Wintry mix, becoming all snow Thu with strong winds by late afternoon.
    • Snow: Preliminary snow totals [2-9"]. Highest amounts north / central WI
    • Ice: Minimal, if any, ice accumulations
    • Wind: Gusts of 30 to 40 mph will cause blowing and drifting snow.  Possible whiteout / blizzard conditions: southeast MN, northeast IA, and southwest WI Thu afternoon-night.
  • Timing: Wintry mix or snow spreads in late tonight, changing to snow early Thu. Heaviest snow during the day, tapering off Thu night. Winds and blowing/drifting snow later Thu afternoon and night.
  • Impacts: Travel conditions will deteriorate Thursday. Consider changing your plans if possible. Travel could become dangerous by early evening in some places due to blizzard conditions. Commutes will likely be impacted.
  • ACTION: Anticipate slippery travel, slow down and allow extra time to reach your destination

Weekend into Next Week: Bitter Cold

  • What: Dangerously cold wind chills - from -20 to -35 at times.
  • Where: Entire area. Coldest west of Mississippi River.
  • Timing: Friday through much of next week
  • Impacts: Frost bite can occur in as little as 30 minutes without proper clothing. Hypothermia possible with prolonged exposure.
  • ACTION: Cover exposed skin. Wear several layers of clothing, hat and gloves. Protect pets from the cold, make sure they have fresh water. Limit outdoor exposure if possible. Make sure vehicles are prepped for bitter cold conditions.