Minneapolis, MN – Minnesota residents could see their first flakes of the season this weekend, as a cold front sweeps across the Upper Midwest, signaling what forecasters believe could be the official start of winter conditions. The National Weather Service (NWS) warns of a notable temperature drop and a chance of light snow Saturday morning, particularly north and west of the Twin Cities.
The Forecast: Colder Air and a Chance of Snow Arriving Saturday
After a mild week with highs in the mid-40s, colder Arctic air is moving into Minnesota, bringing a winter-like feel by the weekend. According to NWS Twin Cities, temperatures are expected to fall rapidly on Saturday, with morning rain showers possibly changing to light snow flurries by midday.
“The first flakes could appear early Saturday, especially across western and northern portions of the metro,” forecasters said. “Accumulations are expected to remain minimal, but brief slick spots are possible on elevated surfaces.”
By Saturday evening, temperatures will plunge into the mid-20s, and winds from the northwest could gust up to 25 mph, creating wind chills in the teens. While no significant snow accumulation is expected, the combination of cold air and wet roads could make travel tricky, especially on bridges and overpasses.
Sunday Outlook: Cold, Bright, and Breezy
Sunday will bring clearing skies but little warmth. Highs will struggle to reach the low 30s, and brisk northwest winds will continue to blow across the state.
Meteorologists say Sunday will feel like the season has officially turned, with a pattern that looks more like mid-November than late October.
“It’s not a major storm by any means,” said one NWS meteorologist. “But this weekend marks the first real shift toward a colder and more winter-like setup that’s likely to stick around.”
The day will be dry and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities — as long as residents are prepared for wind chills that will feel closer to the upper teens and low 20s.
Temperature Trend: Colder Pattern Setting in Across Minnesota
After Sunday’s chill, temperatures will moderately rebound early next week, with highs returning to the upper 30s and lower 40s on Monday and Tuesday. However, forecasters caution that another Arctic front may be close behind.
Weather models suggest the colder, drier air mass will dominate through mid-November, potentially setting the stage for more frequent snow events later in the month.
This early taste of winter, though minor, is a clear signal of seasonal change. Meteorologists say that once these northern air patterns establish themselves, they tend to linger.
What Residents Should Expect
- Friday: Mostly clear, highs near 45°F, calm winds.
- Saturday: Rain changing to light snow, highs in the 30s, lows in the 20s, gusty northwest winds up to 25 mph.
- Sunday: Cold and bright, highs near 32°F, continued wind chills in the teens.
- Early Next Week: Slight rebound to the upper 30s and low 40s before another potential cold front midweek.
Authorities remind residents to prepare vehicles for winter conditions, check tire pressure, and watch for slick spots on roads during early morning hours this weekend.
Background: Early Snow Not Uncommon in Minnesota
While October snow is not unusual for Minnesota, this year’s mild autumn delayed the first measurable flakes longer than usual. Average first snowfall in the Twin Cities typically occurs around October 30, though measurable accumulation usually holds off until November.
Climate experts note that early snow events, even light ones, often signal the transition into winter’s dominant pattern — marked by cold air masses from Canada and shorter periods of daytime warmth.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
The National Weather Service will continue to monitor the developing cold front and issue updated advisories if snow coverage expands. No winter weather warnings have been issued yet, but forecasters say the shift in temperature could be a precursor to a more active November pattern.
Residents are encouraged to follow local weather alerts and plan accordingly for the colder weekend ahead.
Conclusion
Minnesota’s brief autumn warmth is giving way to the first brush of winter, with light snow and freezing temperatures expected this weekend. Though no major storm is in sight, forecasters say this pattern shift could be the start of a long, cold season ahead for the Upper Midwest.
How are you preparing for Minnesota’s early winter chill? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
