MINNEAPOLIS — After a relatively quiet winter, Minnesota will experience its second big spring snowfall in the next few days. In fact, the Twin Cities could receive more than half of this season's total snowfall by Tuesday.
Weather resources: More detailed weather information | Animated radar
Here's what we know so far about the storm and snow potential.
First storm: snow mostly overnight
of first weather system Light snow is expected to fall across western Minnesota starting Thursday around 7 p.m.Scheduled to appear in the Twin Cities by 9 p.m.
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Most of the steady snow will occur overnight, with 2 to 4 inches of snow possible across most of Minnesota. More may be seen in some areas.
The storm system is expected to move through Minnesota by Friday morning. Due to the impact on travel, particularly on untreated roads, a NEXT Drive Alert will be in effect during the morning commute.
As the storm subsides, the clouds will also clear, so expect to see some sunshine Friday afternoon and evening. This should melt some of the snow that has accumulated.
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Second storm: More snow (and more rain) Sunday through Tuesday.
Saturday is expected to be mostly mild, with a chance of rain in the afternoon in southern Minnesota.
By Sunday afternoon, conditions will be in full swing again with continued snow and increasing winds.
Related: MSP Airport, MnDOT prepares for spring break and blizzard one-two punch
Compared to the first storm event, which was relatively short-lived, the second round is much longer in duration, contains more moisture, and has a higher chance of precipitation that continues into Tuesday.
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That means this second system could bring even more snow.
There will also be some rain on Monday, but there is still no consistent forecast for rain and snow amounts.
Traffic conditions will worsen Sunday and Monday morning as a result of this second system. The question remains what effects will remain beyond Tuesday.
So how much snow will fall by Tuesday?
As of Thursday afternoon, the Twin Cities had recorded 14.3 inches of snow this winter, with February being the snowiest month ever with 7 inches. Only trace amounts of snow have been recorded in March, but that is changing.
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A clearer forecast of the second storm's snow totals will emerge after the first event ends, but based on conditions already confirmed, even more snow than the first storm is likely. there is.
more: Xcel Energy urges customers to prepare for multi-day March snowstorm
That means some areas could see several inches of snow by Friday and several more by Tuesday.
More than 7 inches of snow will fall in the Twin Cities by the end of the second system. March is the snowiest month of the season in the subway.. More than 7.2 inches would account for more than half of the season's total snowfall ever recorded.
The NEXT Weather team is diligently monitoring both storm events, including potential snowfall amounts, so check back with WCCO.com for the latest information.
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