Minnesota – A fast-moving burst of snow is sweeping across the Twin Cities, creating slick roads, reduced visibility, and the first truly bitter stretch of early-December cold. Forecasters warn that travel may become increasingly difficult through Sunday as multiple rounds of light snow combine with plunging temperatures and strong winds.
Snowfall Begins Across the Metro as Winds Pick Up
Steady bands of snow are moving through Minneapolis and St. Paul today, dropping around 1 inch of accumulation across the metro. Gusts reaching 20 mph are blowing snow across roadways, making bridges, overpasses, and untreated streets slippery early in the day. Temperatures will hover near 30°F, but this brief daytime spike will not last long as another sharp drop arrives tonight.
Meteorologists at the National Weather Service say visibility may fluctuate through the afternoon as winds push powdery snow across open areas, especially near major travel corridors.
Weekend Lull Broken by Another Round of Snow
A short break in precipitation on Saturday morning won’t last long. Another quick system is expected to approach by late afternoon, bringing up to an additional inch of snow, mainly west and south of the metro. Highs will only reach the upper teens, with wind chills near zero, keeping roads icy and preventing any meaningful melting.
Sunday brings more clouds, breezy conditions, and temperatures that fall well below freezing again. Even light snowfall or flurries could refreeze road surfaces, increasing the chance of black ice on heavily traveled routes such as I-35, I-94, and I-494.
Early-Week Clipper Adds to Travel Concerns
Forecasters are also monitoring a Monday clipper system that may bring scattered light snow to parts of Minnesota. While accumulation is expected to be minimal, the combination of fresh snow and persistent cold will make commutes slow and potentially hazardous.
By midweek, temperatures remain stuck below freezing before a slight warm-up into the upper 20s by Thursday. However, long-range projections indicate that the Dec. 11–17 period may hold additional snow chances, as a Great Lakes storm pattern continues to influence early-season travel.
What Drivers Should Know
Officials recommend preparing for fluctuating road conditions throughout the weekend. Powdery snow combined with cold pavement temperatures can quickly create slick surfaces, especially during overnight and early-morning hours.
Key reminders include:
- Allow extra travel time on highways and neighborhood streets
- Clear all windows and mirrors before driving
- Watch for sudden drops in visibility in open areas
- Use caution on bridges and ramps where ice forms first
Five-Day Forecast for Minneapolis–St. Paul
Below is the latest temperature and weather outlook for the metro area:
| Day | High/Low | Forecast Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Fri | 30° / 8° | Snow likely; up to 1 inch; wind chills near 10°F |
| Sat | 17° / 1° | Partly cloudy; late-day snow chance |
| Sun | 10° / –3° | Bitterly cold; light snow possible |
| Mon | 23° / 21° | Cloudy; 30% chance of snow |
| Tue | 32° / 17° | Mostly cloudy; cold and breezy |
Conclusion
Minnesota enters the weekend with a combination of light snowfall, gusty winds, and Arctic air that will keep roads icy and temperatures uncomfortable. Another storm system next week could add to early-December travel challenges, so residents should keep winter gear and snow brushes close by.
Plan ahead, stay updated with local forecasts, and share any weather impacts you’re seeing in your area in the comments below.
