Breezy weather is expected this afternoon, as strong winds will pick up into the evening hours. A wintry mix of precipitation is anticipated to begin this afternoon, with the heaviest activity expected after 6 PM. Rain, snow, sleet, and freezing rain are all possible scenarios, which could result in a layer of ice on hard surfaces. While counties in the southern regions can expect primarily rain mixed with some wintry precipitation overnight, the northern areas will face significant challenges. Winds will be gusting from the east, reaching speeds of up to 55 mph tonight, with temperatures hovering in the upper 20s to lower 30s. Blizzard conditions are forecasted for the North Shore area, making travel extremely difficult, if not impossible.
As we look towards Wednesday morning, snowfall totals of 4 to 8 inches are expected in the Ports and along the North Shore. Snowfall will persist throughout the day, with east winds blowing at 15 to 30 mph and gusts reaching 50 mph. By sunset, snow accumulations in the Ports may reach between 6 and 12 inches, while the North Shore could see totals of 10 to 16 inches, accompanied by substantial snow drifts. Other areas may receive anywhere from a trace up to 6 inches of snow.
Thursday morning will likely bring lingering light snow showers around the head of the lake and throughout northeastern Minnesota. Snowfall is expected to taper off in the Ports by midday, but light snow chances will linger throughout the day. High temperatures are forecasted to be in the lower 30s, with northwest winds blowing at 5 to 15 mph.
Looking ahead to Friday, another weather system could affect the region, although confidence in the exact trajectory of the storm is low due to model discrepancies. Should the system materialize as anticipated, an additional 1 to 6 inches of snow may fall, with highs remaining in the 20s and north winds prevailing.
Stay tuned for updates on this evolving weather situation and ensure to protect yourself and your property during these severe conditions.