Snowstorm Sweeps Through the Region
The Upper Midwest experienced its biggest snowfall of the season on Thursday as a well-forecasted clipper system moved through the region, delivering heavy snow and gusty winds. Winter storm warnings remain in place until midnight, with blowing snow expected to continue into the night. The storm, which tracked slightly farther south than initially predicted, brought some of the biggest snowfall totals to areas south and west of the Twin Cities. As of Thursday evening, snowfall reports indicate widespread accumulation, with additional snowfall likely overnight in parts of southeastern Minnesota.
Notable Snowfall Totals
Snowfall measurements showed significant accumulations across North Dakota and Minnesota. In North Dakota, Lakota recorded the highest snowfall at 9 inches. In Minnesota, areas like Winthrop and Holt saw 7.2 and 7 inches of snow, respectively, while New Prague and Bird Island followed closely with totals of 7 and 6.8 inches. Other notable measurements include:
- Montgomery: 6.7 inches
- West of Belle Plaine: 6.5 inches
- St. Peter and Minnesota City: 6.2 inches
- White Bear Lake: 6 inches
- Victoria: 5.6 inches
- MSP Airport, Oakdale, Woodbury, Rochester: 5 inches
- Maple Grove and Fridley: 4 inches
Forecasters noted that southeastern Minnesota remains in the zone for additional snowfall, with an estimated 1 to 3 inches still possible overnight. Snowfall totals could rise further as snow continues in parts of the region into Friday morning.
Impact and Outlook
As the snow system winds down, weather models from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) project a gradual decrease in snowfall activity overnight. However, lingering winds will keep blowing snow a concern for residents traveling in affected areas. Despite the current accumulation, forecasters suggest that warmer temperatures next week could lead to accelerated snowmelt. Highs on Christmas Day are expected to climb into the 30s, ensuring a white Christmas morning but signaling milder weather ahead.
Residents are advised to exercise caution on roads as cleanup efforts continue, with travel conditions likely to remain challenging in some areas.
