Winter Storm Watch 3, NWS Twin Cities, MN

Anoka County, MN, Benton County, MN, Blue Earth County, MN, Brown County, MN, Carver County, MN, Chippewa County, MN, Chisago County, MN, Dakota County, MN, Faribault County, MN, Freeborn County, MN, Goodhue County, MN, Hennepin County, MN, Isanti County, MN, Kanabec County, MN, Kandiyohi County, MN, Lac qui Parle County, MN, Le Sueur County, MN, Martin County, MN, McLeod County, MN, Meeker County, MN, Mille Lacs County, MN, Nicollet County, MN, Ramsey County, MN, Redwood County, MN, Renville County, MN, Rice County, MN, Scott County, MN, Sherburne County, MN, Sibley County, MN, Stearns County, MN, Steele County, MN, Swift County, MN, Waseca County, MN, Washington County, MN, Watonwan County, MN, Wright County, MN, Yellow Medicine County, MN, Barron County, WI, Chippewa County, WI, Dunn County, WI, Eau Claire County, WI, Pepin County, WI, Pierce County, WI, Polk County, WI, Rusk County, WI, Saint Croix County, WI

462 
WWUS43 KMPX 220329
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
929 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

...HIGH END WINTER STORM TAKING AIM AT THE UPPER MIDWEST THURSDAY
NIGHT THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...BRINGING HEAVY SNOW...STRONG 
WINDS...AND BLOWING SNOW...

.What could be the strongest winter storm of the season is expected
to track across the Plains Thursday, to Iowa Thursday night, and 
Wisconsin by Friday. Rain will develop across southern Minnesota 
Thursday afternoon and early evening before changing to heavy snow
Thursday night through Friday. Snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches 
per hour are likely within the intense snow band, which could 
persist for several hours.

Snow accumulations of 6 to 12 inches are likely from southwest to
east central Minnesota and west central Wisconsin, with amounts
in excess of 12 inches possible. A Winter Storm Watch continues 
for the area most likely to receive these amounts, but it could be
expanded northwestward in subsequent forecasts. In addition, 
northeast winds Friday morning becoming north and northwest Friday
afternoon will gust as high as 40 mph. Blowing snow will further 
reduce visibilities. If these winds materialize, blizzard 
conditions should be expected in open areas.

The Friday morning and afternoon commutes are expected to be
significantly impacted.

MNZ053-059>063-065>070-073>078-082>085-091-092-221200-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0000Z/
Chisago-Wright-Hennepin-Anoka-Ramsey-Washington-Renville-McLeod-
Sibley-Carver-Scott-Dakota-Redwood-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Rice-
Goodhue-Watonwan-Blue Earth-Waseca-Steele-Martin-Faribault-
Including the cities of Center City, Monticello, Minneapolis, 
Blaine, St Paul, Stillwater, Olivia, Hutchinson, Gaylord, Chaska,
Shakopee, Hastings, Redwood Falls, New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, 
Faribault, Red Wing, St James, Mankato, Waseca, Owatonna, 
Fairmont, and Blue Earth
929 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING
THROUGH FRIDAY AFTERNOON...

* TIMING...Rain will turn to heavy snow Thursday evening and 
continue through Friday. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts in
  excess of 12 inches possible.

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

WIZ014>016-023>028-221200-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Polk-Barron-Rusk-St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-Chippewa-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Osceola, Rice Lake, Ladysmith, Hudson, 
River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, Durand, Chippewa Falls, 
and Eau Claire
929 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING
THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...

* TIMING...Rain will turn to snow Thursday evening and continue 
  through Friday evening. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts in
  excess of 12 inches possible.

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

BORGHOFF

875 
WWUS43 KMPX 221007
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
407 AM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...HIGH END WINTER STORM TAKING AIM AT THE UPPER MIDWEST THURSDAY
NIGHT THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...BRINGING HEAVY SNOW...STRONG
WINDS...AND BLOWING SNOW...

.A winter storm watch has been expanded to include areas along and
southeast of an Appleton, to St. Cloud, to Mora Minnesota line 
from Thursday evening through Friday evening. Snow accumulations 
of 6 to 12 inches, with locally higher amounts are possible across
the watch area. In addition, northeast winds Friday morning 
becoming north and northwest Friday afternoon will gust as high as
40 mph. Blowing snow will further reduce visibilities. If these 
winds materialize, blizzard conditions should be expected in open 
areas.

The Friday morning and afternoon commutes are expected to be
significantly impacted.

MNZ044-045-049>052-054>058-064-093-221815-
/O.EXA.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Mille Lacs-Kanabec-Stearns-Benton-Sherburne-Isanti-Lac Qui Parle-
Swift-Chippewa-Kandiyohi-Meeker-Yellow Medicine-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Princeton, Mora, St Cloud, Foley, 
Elk River, Cambridge, Madison, Benson, Montevideo, Willmar, 
Litchfield, Granite Falls, and Albert Lea
407 AM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING THROUGH
FRIDAY EVENING...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Winter Storm Watch, which is in effect from Thursday evening
through Friday evening. 

* TIMING...Rain will turn to snow Thursday evening and continue 
  through Friday evening. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts 
  in excess of 12 inches possible. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

MNZ053-059>063-065>070-073>078-082>085-091-092-221815-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Chisago-Wright-Hennepin-Anoka-Ramsey-Washington-Renville-McLeod-
Sibley-Carver-Scott-Dakota-Redwood-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Rice-
Goodhue-Watonwan-Blue Earth-Waseca-Steele-Martin-Faribault-
Including the cities of Center City, Monticello, Minneapolis, 
Blaine, St Paul, Stillwater, Olivia, Hutchinson, Gaylord, Chaska,
Shakopee, Hastings, Redwood Falls, New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, 
Faribault, Red Wing, St James, Mankato, Waseca, Owatonna, 
Fairmont, and Blue Earth
407 AM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING THROUGH
FRIDAY EVENING...

* TIMING...Rain will turn to heavy snow Thursday evening and 
  continue through Friday.

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts 
  in excess of 12 inches possible. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

WIZ014>016-023>028-221815-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Polk-Barron-Rusk-St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-Chippewa-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Osceola, Rice Lake, Ladysmith, Hudson, 
River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, Durand, Chippewa Falls, 
and Eau Claire
407 AM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING
THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...

* TIMING...Rain will turn to snow Thursday evening and continue 
  through Friday evening. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts 
  in excess of 12 inches possible. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible blizzard
conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

578 
WWUS43 KMPX 222126
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
326 PM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...STRONGEST STORM OF THE WINTER ARRIVES THURSDAY NIGHT BRINGING 
HEAVY SNOW...STRONG WINDS...AND BLOWING SNOW...THROUGH FRIDAY
EVENING.

.A winter storm watch continues for much of central and eastern
Minnesota and western Wisconsin. A blizzard watch is in effect for
southwest Minnesota. 

Heavy snow will lift northward Thursday night and bring a quick 3
to 6 inches by Friday morning. On Friday another band of snow will
shift through the region. Locations that see both of these bands
can expect over a foot of snow. In addition, wind gusts of 30 to
40 mph will cause blowing and drifting.

The Friday morning and afternoon commutes are expected to be
significantly impacted.

MNZ065>067-073>076-082>084-091-092-230530-
/O.CAN.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.BZ.A.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Renville-McLeod-Sibley-Redwood-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Watonwan-
Blue Earth-Waseca-Martin-Faribault-
Including the cities of Olivia, Hutchinson, Gaylord, 
Redwood Falls, New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, St James, Mankato, 
Waseca, Fairmont, and Blue Earth
326 PM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...BLIZZARD WATCH IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING THROUGH FRIDAY
EVENING...
...WINTER STORM WATCH IS CANCELLED...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Blizzard Watch, which is in effect from Thursday evening
through Friday evening. The Winter Storm Watch has been
cancelled. 


* TIMING...Heavy snow will develop Thursday night, with increasing
  winds on Friday.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Whiteout conditions are possible, especially
  in open areas.

* Snow accumulations...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts 
  in excess of 12 inches possible. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Watch means there is a potential for falling and/or
blowing snow with strong winds and extremely poor visibilities.
This can lead to whiteout conditions and make travel very
dangerous.

&&

$$

MNZ044-045-049>064-068>070-077-078-085-093-WIZ014>016-023>028-
230530-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Mille Lacs-Kanabec-Stearns-Benton-Sherburne-Isanti-Chisago-
Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Kandiyohi-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-
Anoka-Ramsey-Washington-Yellow Medicine-Carver-Scott-Dakota-Rice-
Goodhue-Steele-Freeborn-Polk-Barron-Rusk-St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-
Pepin-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Princeton, Mora, St Cloud, Foley, 
Elk River, Cambridge, Center City, Madison, Benson, Montevideo, 
Willmar, Litchfield, Monticello, Minneapolis, Blaine, St Paul, 
Stillwater, Granite Falls, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, Faribault,
Red Wing, Owatonna, Albert Lea, Osceola, Rice Lake, Ladysmith, 
Hudson, River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, Durand, Chippewa Falls,
and Eau Claire
326 PM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING
THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...

* TIMING...Rain will turn to snow Thursday evening and continue 
  through Friday evening. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are likely, with amounts 
  in excess of 12 inches possible. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

jrb

357 
WWUS43 KMPX 230357
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
957 PM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...STRONGEST STORM OF THE WINTER ARRIVES THURSDAY NIGHT BRINGING
HEAVY SNOW...STRONG WINDS...AND BLOWING SNOW...THROUGH FRIDAY
EVENING...

.A Winter Storm Watch continues for much of central and eastern 
Minnesota and western Wisconsin. A Blizzard Watch is in effect for
southwest Minnesota.

New model guidance indicates an eastward shift in the heaviest snow 
potential. However, southern and eastern Minnesota and west central 
Wisconsin are still very likely to experience heavy snowfall. 
Snowfall amounts were tightened on the western edge of the snow 
shield with little or no snow expected from Morris to Alexandria. 

Heavy snow will lift northward Thursday night and bring a quick
3 to 6 inches by Friday morning. On Friday, another band of snow
will shift through the region. Locations that see both of these
bands can expect over a foot of snow. In addition, wind gusts of
30 to 40 mph will cause blowing and drifting.

The Friday morning and afternoon commutes are expected to be
significantly impacted.

MNZ065>067-073>076-082>084-091-092-231200-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.A.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Renville-McLeod-Sibley-Redwood-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Watonwan-
Blue Earth-Waseca-Martin-Faribault-
Including the cities of Olivia, Hutchinson, Gaylord, 
Redwood Falls, New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, St James, Mankato, 
Waseca, Fairmont, and Blue Earth
957 PM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...BLIZZARD WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING THROUGH
FRIDAY EVENING...

* TIMING...Heavy snow will develop Thursday night, with 
  increasing winds on Friday. 

* Snow accumulations...6 to 12 inches are possible.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with
  gusts to 45 mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible
  whiteout conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Watch means there is a potential for falling and/or
blowing snow with strong winds and extremely poor visibilities.
This can lead to whiteout conditions and make travel very
dangerous.

&&

$$

MNZ044-045-049>064-068>070-077-078-085-093-WIZ014>016-023>028-
231200-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Mille Lacs-Kanabec-Stearns-Benton-Sherburne-Isanti-Chisago-
Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Kandiyohi-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-
Anoka-Ramsey-Washington-Yellow Medicine-Carver-Scott-Dakota-Rice-
Goodhue-Steele-Freeborn-Polk-Barron-Rusk-St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-
Pepin-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Princeton, Mora, St Cloud, Foley, 
Elk River, Cambridge, Center City, Madison, Benson, Montevideo, 
Willmar, Litchfield, Monticello, Minneapolis, Blaine, St Paul, 
Stillwater, Granite Falls, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, Faribault,
Red Wing, Owatonna, Albert Lea, Osceola, Rice Lake, Ladysmith, 
Hudson, River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, Durand, Chippewa Falls,
and Eau Claire
957 PM CST Wed Feb 22 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM THURSDAY EVENING
THROUGH FRIDAY EVENING...

* TIMING...Rain will turn to snow Thursday evening and continue 
  through Friday evening. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...6 to 12 inches are possible, mainly from
  east central Minnesota through west central Wisconsin. Totals 
  will drop off quickly west of a line from Hutchinson to Rush 
  City. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and possible 
  blizzard conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

Borghoff

183 
WWUS43 KMPX 231027
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...MAJOR WINTER STORM TO IMPACT SOUTH CENTRAL MINNESOTA INTO WEST
CENTRAL WISCONSIN TONIGHT INTO FRIDAY NIGHT...

.A blizzard warning is now in effect for south central Minnesota,
including the Mankato area and I-90 corridor. A winter storm 
warning now covers the southeast Twin Cities metro area over to 
Eau Claire and Chippewa Falls Wisconsin. A blizzard watch remains
in effect from Redwood Fall over to Glencoe, with a winter storm
watch still in effect for most of the Twin Cities and the US-8
corridor in northwest Wisconsin.

Snowfall totals between 12 and 15 inches are expected along and
southeast of a St. James Minnesota to Eau Claire Wisconsin line,
with a very tight gradient in snowfall totals expected northwest
of this main band. 

In addition, wind speeds are expected to between 25 and 35 mph,
with gusts around 40 mph in south central Minnesota. This will
lead to significant blowing and drifting as well for south 
central Minnesota, where the blizzard warning is in effect

The Friday morning and afternoon commutes are expected to be
significantly impacted.

MNZ044-045-049-050-054>058-064-231130-
/O.CAN.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
Mille Lacs-Kanabec-Stearns-Benton-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-
Kandiyohi-Meeker-Yellow Medicine-
Including the cities of Princeton, Mora, St Cloud, Foley, 
Madison, Benson, Montevideo, Willmar, Litchfield, 
and Granite Falls
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH IS CANCELLED...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has
cancelled the Winter Storm Watch. 

The heaviest snow is expected southeast of these areas, with
snowfall amounts of 3 inches or less expected.

$$

MNZ074>076-082>084-091-092-231830-
/O.UPG.KMPX.BZ.A.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.BZ.W.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Watonwan-Blue Earth-Waseca-Martin-
Faribault-
Including the cities of New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, St James, 
Mankato, Waseca, Fairmont, and Blue Earth
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 AM CST
SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Blizzard Warning, which is in effect from 6 PM this evening to
6 AM CST Saturday. The Blizzard Watch is no longer in effect. 

* TIMING...Heavy snow will develop between 8pm and 10pm tonight, 
with increasing winds on Friday. 

* Snow accumulations...8 to 15 inches are expected.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Northeast to northwest 25 to 35 mph with 
gusts to 45 mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and 
possible whiteout conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout
conditions...making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If
you must travel...have a winter survival kit with you. If you get
stranded...stay with your vehicle.

&&

$$

MNZ085-093-231830-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.BZ.W.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
Steele-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Owatonna and Albert Lea
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 AM CST
SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Blizzard Warning, which is in effect from 6 PM this evening to
6 AM CST Saturday. The Winter Storm Watch is no longer in effect.

* TIMING...Heavy snow will develop between 8pm and 10pm tonight, 
with increasing winds on Friday. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...12 to 15 inches are expected.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Northeast to northwest 25 to 35 mph with
  gusts to 45 mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and
  possible whiteout conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout
conditions...making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If
you must travel...have a winter survival kit with you. If you get
stranded...stay with your vehicle.

&&

$$

MNZ063-069-070-077-078-WIZ023>028-231830-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T0600Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WS.W.0002.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
Washington-Scott-Dakota-Rice-Goodhue-St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-
Chippewa-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Stillwater, Shakopee, Hastings, 
Faribault, Red Wing, Hudson, River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, 
Durand, Chippewa Falls, and Eau Claire
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 AM
CST SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow and blowing snow, which is 
in effect from 6 PM this evening to 6 AM CST Saturday. The Winter 
Storm Watch is no longer in effect. 

* TIMING...heavy snow will quickly spread in between 10pm and
  midnight tonight.

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...8 to 12 inches are expected, with total
  falling off quickly north of a New Prague, to Cottage Grove, to
  Holcombe Wisconsin line.

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph
  resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather
conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow
are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an 
emergency. If you must travel...keep an extra flashlight... 
food...and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

&&

$$

MNZ065>067-073-231830-
/O.EXT.KMPX.BZ.A.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
Renville-McLeod-Sibley-Redwood-
Including the cities of Olivia, Hutchinson, Gaylord, 
and Redwood Falls
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...BLIZZARD WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM THIS EVENING THROUGH LATE
FRIDAY NIGHT...

* TIMING...Snow will develop after 8pm tonight, with increasing
  winds on Friday.

* Snow accumulations...4 to 8 inches are possible.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with 
  gusts to 40 mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and 
  possible whiteout conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Watch means there is a potential for falling and/or
blowing snow with strong winds and extremely poor visibilities.
This can lead to whiteout conditions and make travel very
dangerous.

&&

$$

MNZ051>053-059>062-068-WIZ014>016-231830-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
Sherburne-Isanti-Chisago-Wright-Hennepin-Anoka-Ramsey-Carver-Polk-
Barron-Rusk-
Including the cities of Elk River, Cambridge, Center City, 
Monticello, Minneapolis, Blaine, St Paul, Chaska, Osceola, 
Rice Lake, and Ladysmith
427 AM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM THIS EVENING THROUGH
LATE FRIDAY NIGHT...

* TIMING...Snow will spread into the area between 10pm and 2am
  tonight.

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...4 to 8 inches are possible. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph
  resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is a potential for significant
snow...sleet...or ice accumulations that may impact travel.
Continue to monitor the latest forecasts.

&&

$$

466 
WWUS43 KMPX 231831
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...MAJOR WINTER STORM TO IMPACT SOUTH CENTRAL MINNESOTA INTO WEST
CENTRAL WISCONSIN TONIGHT INTO FRIDAY NIGHT...

.A blizzard warning is in effect for south central Minnesota, 
including the Mankato area and I-90 corridor. A winter storm 
warning is in effect for the southern and eastern Twin Cities 
metro area and over into much of west central Wisconsin. A winter
weather advisory is in effect for for much of central Minnesota
from Redwood and Renville counties through Hennepin and Ramsey
counties, along with Polk County Wisconsin. 

Snowfall totals between 12 and 15 inches are expected along and
southeast of a St. James Minnesota to Eau Claire Wisconsin line,
with a very tight gradient in snowfall totals expected northwest
of this main band.

In addition, wind speeds are expected to between 25 and 35 mph,
with gusts around 40 mph in south central Minnesota. This will
lead to significant blowing and drifting as well for south
central Minnesota, where the blizzard warning is in effect

The Friday morning and afternoon commutes are expected to be
significantly impacted.

MNZ051>053-059-061-231945-
/O.CAN.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
Sherburne-Isanti-Chisago-Wright-Anoka-
Including the cities of Elk River, Cambridge, Center City, 
Monticello, and Blaine
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER STORM WATCH IS CANCELLED...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has
cancelled the Winter Storm Watch. 

Snow amounts are expected to be less than 3 inches for portions of
east central Minnesota. Therefore, the winter storm watch has been
cancelled.

$$

MNZ077-078-240300-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.W.0002.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
/O.EXB.KMPX.BZ.W.0001.170224T0300Z-170225T1200Z/
Rice-Goodhue-
Including the cities of Faribault and Red Wing
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 AM CST
SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Blizzard Warning, which is in effect from 9 PM this evening to
6 AM CST Saturday. The Winter Storm Warning is no longer in
effect. 

* TIMING...Heavy snow will quickly spread in between 10pm and
  midnight tonight, continuing through much of Friday. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...9 to 14 inches are expected.

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout
conditions...making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If
you must travel...have a winter survival kit with you. If you get
stranded...stay with your vehicle.

&&

$$

WIZ015-016-240300-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
/O.EXB.KMPX.WS.W.0002.170224T0300Z-170225T1200Z/
Barron-Rusk-
Including the cities of Rice Lake and Ladysmith
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 AM
CST SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Winter Storm Warning for Heavy Snow, which is in effect from 9 
PM this evening to 6 AM CST Saturday. The Winter Storm Watch is no
longer in effect. 

* TIMING...Snow will spread into the area between 10pm and 2am
  tonight, continuing through much of Friday. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...4 to 8 inches are possible.

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 30
  mph, which may create areas of blowing and drifting snow.


PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather
conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow
are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an 
emergency. If you must travel...keep an extra flashlight... 
food...and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

&&

$$

MNZ074>076-082>085-091>093-240300-
/O.EXT.KMPX.BZ.W.0001.170224T0300Z-170225T1200Z/
Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Watonwan-Blue Earth-Waseca-Steele-Martin-
Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, St James, 
Mankato, Waseca, Owatonna, Fairmont, Blue Earth, and Albert Lea
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...BLIZZARD WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 AM
CST SATURDAY...

* TIMING...Heavy snow will develop between 8pm and 10pm tonight, 
  with increasing winds on Friday.

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...10 to 15 inches are expected.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Northeast to northwest 25 to 35 mph with 
  gusts to 45 mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and 
  possible whiteout conditions. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds
and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout
conditions...making travel extremely dangerous. Do not travel. If
you must travel...have a winter survival kit with you. If you get
stranded...stay with your vehicle.

&&

$$

MNZ063-069-070-WIZ023>028-240300-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.W.0002.170224T0300Z-170225T1200Z/
Washington-Scott-Dakota-St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-Chippewa-
Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Stillwater, Shakopee, Hastings, Hudson, 
River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, Durand, Chippewa Falls, 
and Eau Claire
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 AM CST SATURDAY...

* TIMING...heavy snow will quickly spread in between 10pm and 
  midnight tonight. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...8 to 12 inches are expected, with total 
  falling off quickly north of a New Prague, to Cottage Grove, 
  to Holcombe Wisconsin line. 

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 
  mph resulting in considerable blowing and drifting snow. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather
conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow
are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an
emergency. If you must travel...keep an extra flashlight...
food...and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

&&

$$

MNZ065>067-073-240300-
/O.UPG.KMPX.BZ.A.0001.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WW.Y.0008.170224T0300Z-170225T1200Z/
Renville-McLeod-Sibley-Redwood-
Including the cities of Olivia, Hutchinson, Gaylord, 
and Redwood Falls
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 AM CST SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Winter Weather Advisory for Snow and Blowing Snow, which is in 
effect from 9 PM this evening to 6 AM CST Saturday. The Blizzard 
Watch is no longer in effect. 

* TIMING...Snow will develop after 8pm tonight, with increasing 
  winds on Friday. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...3 to 6 inches are possible.

* WINDS/VISIBILITY...Northeast to northwest 20 to 30 mph with 
  gusts to 40 mph resulting in considerable blowing snow and 
  possible whiteout conditions. 

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow and blowing snow means that 
visibilities will be limited due to a combination of falling and 
blowing snow. Use caution when traveling... especially in open 
areas.

&&

$$

MNZ060-062-068-WIZ014-240300-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0003.170224T0000Z-170225T1200Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WW.Y.0008.170224T0300Z-170225T1200Z/
Hennepin-Ramsey-Carver-Polk-
Including the cities of Minneapolis, St Paul, Chaska, and Osceola
1231 PM CST Thu Feb 23 2017

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 AM CST SATURDAY...

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen has issued
a Winter Weather Advisory for Snow and Blowing Snow, which is in 
effect from 9 PM this evening to 6 AM CST Saturday. The Winter 
Storm Watch is no longer in effect. 

* TIMING...Snow will spread into the area between 10pm and 2am 
  tonight. 

* SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...3 to 6 inches are possible.

* WINDS...Northeast to northwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 35 mph
  may result in areas of blowing and drifting snow. 

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow and blowing snow means that 
visibilities will be limited due to a combination of falling and 
blowing snow. Use caution when traveling... especially in open 
areas.

&&

$$

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
237 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

.SHORT TERM...(This evening through Wednesday)
Issued at 236 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

Today was another day of record warmth across the Midwest as morning
fog quickly mixed out leaving clear skies. The mid-February sun
together with double digit H850 temps yielded highs in the 60s at
most locations, and upper 50s elsewhere.

Dry weather will continue overnight, but another round of fog
development is possible, but should not be quite as dense as this
mornings since there will be some high clouds. A week upper level
wave will move across the region and develop some rain/snow showers
across northern MN/WI on Wednesday, but areas south of I-94 will
most likely only see virga. Temperatures on Wednesday will be warm
again, but the clouds will keep them a few degrees cooler than today
was.

.LONG TERM...(Wednesday night through Tuesday)
Issued at 236 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

The main focus in the forecast is the winter storm that will bring a
harsh reality of snow, wind, and colder air to the region beginning
Thursday night and lasting through Friday. Would not be surprised if
a few locations see over a foot of snow. Right now have a swath of 8
to 10 inches, but reality will probably be more narrow with higher
totals.

It was 60 degrees at MSP this afternoon, and in 60 hours it will be
snowing.  That in itself makes this system pretty awesome for lack
of better words. This storm is currently located off the west coast.
Over the next 48 hours the upper level trough will move across the
Rockies and over the Great Plains. Although this sytem is rather low
amplitude, it takes on a negative tilt and will have a very
favorable low level temperature gradient to work with to achieve
maximum potential in terms of sensible weather.

This temperature gradient will be the focus for an area of heavy
precipitation that will develop Thursday evening. The precip will
probably start out as rain, but should quickly transition over to
snow as the intensity increases. Forecast soundings show an
incredible amount of omega along this Fgen band, so expect snowfall
rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour to lift northward overnight into
Friday morning. This should produce a quick 3 to 6 inches of snow.

Then things get a bit challenging. The next round of precip will be
tied to the upper level forcing of the parent shortwave, and this is
always more difficult to predict with confidence. The cyclone will
quickly mature, and should see a well-defined TROWAL by Friday
morning as continually depicted by the GFS. This will produce more
localized heavy snow, so could see another 4 to 6 inches in some
locations. There will likely be a break between these two features
of the GFS pans out, to some extent the ECMWF, and to a lesser
extent the NAM. That is why forecast snow totals are likely to
change, but the high-end potential remains.

A quick look at the CIPS analogs show 12+ inch snowfall amounts with
most other storms that match our current one. There is a lot of
moisture, with strong forcing, and potential for prolonged period of
snow. In addition, forecast soundings show winds of 25 to 30 mph,
with gusts near 40 mph. For that reason, have issued a Winter Storm
watch for much of southern/central MN and western WI. Looking ahead,
temperatures will cool off in the wake of this system with another
round of snow possible early next week.

&&

.AVIATION...(For the 18Z TAFS through 18Z Wednesday afternoon)
Issued at 1205 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

Dense fog this morning has cleared at area terminals leading to
VFR conditions this afternoon. Some gusts of 25-30 kts are
expected through early afternoon at RWF, but otherwise winds will
start the period S/SWly around 10 kts to start the period and
diminish through the afternoon. Some fog is expected to develop
overnight at MSP, STC, EAU, & RNH due to the anomalously moist
ground from recent rainfall and light winds. Uncertain on how low
visibilities will go, so monitor future issuances. Fog will clear
by 14-15Z leading to light winds and BKN/OVC mid-level ceilings.

KMSP...

Main concern at MSP will be the possibility of fog developing at
MSP overnight. Due to the anomalous soil moisture from recent
rains and calm winds, conditions look favorable for fog from
10-14Z Wednesday. Confidence is currently low on how far
visibility will drop, will go with 3 SM for now and can reassess
at the next TAF issuance.

/OUTLOOK FOR KMSP/
Wed...VFR. Wind SW at 10G15 kts becoming NW late.
Thu...VFR. CHC MVFR/-RA/-SN in the afternoon, then LIFR/+SN
likely Thu night. Wind NE 5-10 kts.

&&

.MPX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
WI...Winter Storm Watch from Thursday evening through Friday evening
     for WIZ014>016-023>028.

MN...Winter Storm Watch from Thursday evening through Friday
     afternoon for MNZ053-059>063-065>070-073>078-082>085-091-
     092.

&&

SHORT TERM...JRB
LONG TERM...JRB
AVIATION...ETA|

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
250 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

MNZ041>045-047>070-073>078-082>085-091>093-WIZ014>016-023>028-
222100-
Douglas-Todd-Morrison-Mille Lacs-Kanabec-Stevens-Pope-Stearns-
Benton-Sherburne-Isanti-Chisago-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-
Kandiyohi-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-Anoka-Ramsey-Washington-
Yellow Medicine-Renville-McLeod-Sibley-Carver-Scott-Dakota-
Redwood-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Rice-Goodhue-Watonwan-Blue Earth-
Waseca-Steele-Martin-Faribault-Freeborn-Polk-Barron-Rusk-
St. Croix-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-Eau Claire-
250 PM CST Tue Feb 21 2017

This Hazardous Weather Outlook is for portions of central and
southern Minnesota...and west central Wisconsin.

.DAY ONE...This Afternoon and Tonight

No hazardous weather is expected at this time.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Wednesday through Monday

Heavy snow and strong wind will cause travel impacts and perhaps
even some power outages Thursday night and Friday. The storm track
is still shifting, but as of now the heaviest snow will fall from
Mankato through Twin Cities and Ladysmith.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

SKYWARN spotter activation will not be needed.

jrb