Winter Storm Watch 5, NWS Twin Cities, MN

Blue Earth County, MN, Brown County, MN, Carver County, MN, Chippewa County, MN, Dakota County, MN, Douglas County, MN, Faribault County, MN, Freeborn County, MN, Goodhue County, MN, Hennepin County, MN, Kandiyohi County, MN, Lac qui Parle County, MN, Le Sueur County, MN, Martin County, MN, McLeod County, MN, Meeker County, MN, Nicollet County, MN, Pope County, MN, Redwood County, MN, Renville County, MN, Rice County, MN, Scott County, MN, Sibley County, MN, Stearns County, MN, Steele County, MN, Stevens County, MN, Swift County, MN, Waseca County, MN, Watonwan County, MN, Wright County, MN, Yellow Medicine County, MN

754 
WWUS43 KMPX 220127
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
827 PM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

...HEAVY SNOW POSSIBLE ALONG AND SOUTH OF I-94 FRIDAY AFTERNOON 
AND CONTINUING INTO SATURDAY MORNING...
...VERY SHARP SNOWFALL GRADIENT LIKELY SETTING UP NEAR SAINT 
CLOUD...THE TWIN CITIES...AND RED WING...

.A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for areas south of I-94 in 
Minnesota Friday afternoon into Saturday morning. Snow will 
develop across the Dakotas and build eastward into west central 
Minnesota late Friday morning, reaching east central Minnesota 
Friday evening. There may be a brief period of rain before turning
to heavy snow as temperatures cool quickly.

Snowfall amounts of 5 to 9 inches are expected across western and
southern Minnesota. There will be a sharp gradient in amounts
near I-94, with little or no snow possible over northwest and
portions of west central Wisconsin. Any shift would lead to
significant forecast changes near this gradient, which includes
the Twin Cities metro.

MNZ047-054>056-064-073-221000-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1500Z-180324T1500Z/
Stevens-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Yellow Medicine-Redwood-
Including the cities of Morris, Madison, Benson, Montevideo, 
Granite Falls, and Redwood Falls
827 PM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY MORNING
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 9 
  inches.

* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday morning through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ041-048-057-065-067-074-075-082>084-091>093-221000-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1900Z-180324T1500Z/
Douglas-Pope-Kandiyohi-Renville-Sibley-Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan-
Blue Earth-Waseca-Martin-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Glenwood, Willmar, Olivia, 
Gaylord, New Ulm, St Peter, St James, Mankato, Waseca, Fairmont, 
Blue Earth, and Albert Lea
827 PM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 9 
  inches.

* WHERE...Portions of central, south central and west central 
  Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ049-058>060-066-068>070-076>078-085-221000-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T2300Z-180324T1500Z/
Stearns-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-McLeod-Carver-Scott-Dakota-
Le Sueur-Rice-Goodhue-Steele-
Including the cities of St Cloud, Litchfield, Monticello, 
Minneapolis, Hutchinson, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, Le Sueur, 
Faribault, Red Wing, and Owatonna
827 PM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 8 
  inches, with the lightest amounts expected along the 
  Mississippi River including Saint Cloud, Minneapolis, and Red 
  Wing.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, south central and 
  southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

528 
WWUS43 KMPX 220855
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
355 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...HEAVY SNOW POSSIBLE ALONG AND SOUTHWEST OF I-94 FRIDAY 
AFTERNOON AND CONTINUING INTO SATURDAY MORNING... ...VERY SHARP 
SNOWFALL GRADIENT LIKELY SETTING UP NEAR SAINT CLOUD...THE TWIN 
CITIES... AND RED WING...

.A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for areas south of I-94 
in Minnesota Friday afternoon into Saturday morning. Snow will 
develop across the Dakotas and build eastward into west central 
Minnesota late Friday morning, reaching east central Minnesota 
Friday evening. There may be a brief period of rain before turning
to heavy snow as temperatures cool quickly.

Snowfall amounts of 5 to 8 inches are expected across western and
southern Minnesota. There will be a sharp gradient in amounts 
near I-94, with little or no snow possible over northwest and 
portions of west central Wisconsin. Any shift would lead to 
significant forecast changes near this gradient, which includes 
the Twin Cities metro.

MNZ047-054>056-064-073-221700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1500Z-180324T1500Z/
Stevens-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Yellow Medicine-Redwood-
Including the cities of Morris, Madison, Benson, Montevideo, 
Granite Falls, and Redwood Falls
355 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY MORNING
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 8
  inches.

* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday morning through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ041-048-057-065-067-074-075-082>084-091>093-221700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1900Z-180324T1500Z/
Douglas-Pope-Kandiyohi-Renville-Sibley-Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan-
Blue Earth-Waseca-Martin-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Glenwood, Willmar, Olivia, 
Gaylord, New Ulm, St Peter, St James, Mankato, Waseca, Fairmont, 
Blue Earth, and Albert Lea
355 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow possible. Total snow accumulations of 5 to 8
  inches.

* WHERE...Portions of central, south central and west central 
  Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ049-058>060-066-068>070-076>078-085-221700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T2300Z-180324T1500Z/
Stearns-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-McLeod-Carver-Scott-Dakota-
Le Sueur-Rice-Goodhue-Steele-
Including the cities of St Cloud, Litchfield, Monticello, 
Minneapolis, Hutchinson, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, Le Sueur, 
Faribault, Red Wing, and Owatonna
355 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow
  accumulations of 3 to 6 inches, with localized amounts up to 8
  inches possible.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, south central and 
  southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Significant reductions in visibility are possible.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

256 
WWUS43 KMPX 221640
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
1140 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...HEAVY SNOW POSSIBLE ALONG AND SOUTHWEST OF I-94 FRIDAY 
AFTERNOON AND CONTINUING INTO SATURDAY MORNING... 

...VERY SHARP SNOWFALL GRADIENT LIKELY SETTING UP NEAR SAINT 
CLOUD...THE TWIN CITIES...AND RED WING...

.A Winter Storm Watch remains in effect for areas south of I-
94 in Minnesota Friday afternoon into Saturday morning. 

The main forecast concern remains on where the sharp gradient of 
heavy snow, vs, little or no snow develops on the northeast side 
of this Winter Storm. This scenario is similar to a storm system 
last year where one county had little snow, vs, nearly a half foot
fell only 20 to 30 miles away. The difference in this system is 
the gradient will be from southwest to northeast. The Twin Cities
Metro area remains in the sharp cutoff where the drier air from 
the northeast will hold strong. Uncertainties remain so the Winter
Storm Watch will continue until we have a better idea of where 
this gradient sets up. 

Snow will begin to develop across the Dakotas late tonight and 
build eastward into west central Minnesota late Friday morning, 
reaching east central Minnesota late Friday evening. There may be
a brief period of rain, or sleet before turning to heavy snow as 
temperatures cool quickly. The higher probability of sleet will 
occur along the Minnesota River Valley, south to the Iowa border.

Snowfall amounts will range from 5 to 8 inches across western and
southern Minnesota. As mentioned before, there will be a sharp 
gradient in amounts near I-94, with little or no snow possible 
over northwest and portions of west central Wisconsin. Any shift 
would lead to significant forecast changes near this gradient, 
which includes the Twin Cities metro.

MNZ047-054>056-064-073-230100-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1500Z-180324T1500Z/
Stevens-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Yellow Medicine-Redwood-
Including the cities of Morris, Madison, Benson, Montevideo, 
Granite Falls, and Redwood Falls
1140 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY MORNING
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow 
  accumulations of 4 to 7 inches and ice accumulations of a 
  light glaze are possible.

* WHERE...Portions of southwest and west central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday morning through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ041-048-057-065-067-074-075-082>084-091>093-230100-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1900Z-180324T1500Z/
Douglas-Pope-Kandiyohi-Renville-Sibley-Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan-
Blue Earth-Waseca-Martin-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Glenwood, Willmar, Olivia, 
Gaylord, New Ulm, St Peter, St James, Mankato, Waseca, Fairmont, 
Blue Earth, and Albert Lea
1140 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow 
  accumulations of 4 to 7 inches and ice accumulations of a 
  light glaze are possible.

* WHERE...Portions of central, south central and west central 
  Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ049-058>060-066-068>070-076>078-085-230100-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T2300Z-180324T1500Z/
Stearns-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-McLeod-Carver-Scott-Dakota-
Le Sueur-Rice-Goodhue-Steele-
Including the cities of St Cloud, Litchfield, Monticello, 
Minneapolis, Hutchinson, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, Le Sueur, 
Faribault, Red Wing, and Owatonna
1140 AM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING
THROUGH SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow 
  accumulations of 3 to 6 inches, with localized amounts up to 8 
  inches, and ice accumulations of are possible.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, south central and 
  southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Significant reductions in visibility are possible.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

864 
WWUS43 KMPX 222055
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO A WARNING ACROSS WEST
CENTRAL MINNESOTA WITH ADDITIONAL COUNTIES LIKELY BEING ADDED THIS
EVENING...
...VERY SHARP SNOWFALL GRADIENT STILL EXPECTED TO SET UP NEAR 
SAINT CLOUD...THE TWIN CITIES...AND RED WING...

.A Winter Storm Warning is now in effect across west central
Minnesota with a watch remaining elsewhere southwest of the
Mississippi River Friday afternoon into Saturday morning.

The main forecast concern remains where the sharp gradient of 
snowfall totals sets up on the northeast side of this winter 
storm. Little has changed in the last 24 hours with the best
potential of this setting up the Mississippi River, but enough
uncertainty remains so the Winter Storm Watch will continue until
we have a better idea of where this gradient sets up.

Snow will begin to develop across the Dakotas late tonight and
build eastward into west central Minnesota late Friday morning,
reaching east central Minnesota late Friday evening. There may be
a brief period of rain or sleet, but it is expected to turn to 
heavy snow quickly as temperatures cool to near freezing. 

Snowfall amounts will range from 6 to 10 inches across western 
and southern Minnesota. As mentioned before, there will be a sharp
gradient in amounts near the Mississippi River, with possibly little
or no snow northeast of there. Any shift would lead to significant
forecast changes near this gradient, including in the Twin Cities
metro.

MNZ054-064-230500-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1500Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T1600Z-180324T1500Z/
Lac Qui Parle-Yellow Medicine-
Including the cities of Madison and Granite Falls
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 11 AM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Lac Qui Parle and Yellow Medicine Counties.

* WHEN...From 11 AM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ041-048-230500-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1900Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Douglas-Pope-
Including the cities of Alexandria and Glenwood
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 8 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Douglas and Pope Counties.

* WHEN...From 4 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ047-055-056-230500-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1500Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Stevens-Swift-Chippewa-
Including the cities of Morris, Benson, and Montevideo
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Stevens, Swift and Chippewa Counties.

* WHEN...From 4 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ073-230500-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1600Z-180324T1500Z/
Redwood-
Including the city of Redwood Falls
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY MORNING THROUGH
SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible. Total snow 
  accumulations of 8 to 10 inches are possible.

* WHERE...Redwood County.

* WHEN...From Friday morning through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ057-065-067-074-075-082>084-091>093-230500-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Kandiyohi-Renville-Sibley-Brown-Nicollet-Watonwan-Blue Earth-
Waseca-Martin-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Willmar, Olivia, Gaylord, New Ulm, 
St Peter, St James, Mankato, Waseca, Fairmont, Blue Earth, 
and Albert Lea
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY AFTERNOON THROUGH
SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible. Total snow 
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are possible.

* WHERE...Portions of central and south central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday afternoon through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ049-058>060-066-068>070-076>078-085-230500-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0000Z-180324T1500Z/
Stearns-Meeker-Wright-Hennepin-McLeod-Carver-Scott-Dakota-
Le Sueur-Rice-Goodhue-Steele-
Including the cities of St Cloud, Litchfield, Monticello, 
Minneapolis, Hutchinson, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, Le Sueur, 
Faribault, Red Wing, and Owatonna
355 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH
SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible. Total snow
  accumulations of 4 to 9 inches are possible, with the lightest
  amounts along I-94.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, south central and 
  southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

Borghoff/JLT

893 
WWUS43 KMPX 230225
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH HAS BEEN UPGRADED TO A WARNING FOR MORE
COUNTIES...
...VERY SHARP SNOWFALL GRADIENT STILL EXPECTED TO SET UP NEAR OR
JUST SOUTHWEST OF THE MISSISSIPPI RIVER...

.A Winter Storm Warning is now in effect across most of west 
central and south central Minnesota, with a Winter Storm Watch
remaining in effect along I-94.

The main forecast concern remains where the sharp gradient of
snowfall totals sets up on the northeast side of this winter
storm. Little has changed in the last 24 hours with the best
potential of this setting up along or just south of the 
Mississippi River, but enough uncertainty remains so the Winter 
Storm Watch will continue until we have a better idea of where 
this gradient sets up.

Snow will begin to develop across the Dakotas late tonight and
build eastward into west central Minnesota Friday afternoon, 
reaching east central Minnesota late Friday evening. There may be 
a brief period of rain or sleet, but it is expected to turn to 
heavy snow quickly as temperatures cool to near freezing.

Snowfall amounts will range from 6 to 10 inches across western
and southern Minnesota. As mentioned before, there will be a
sharp gradient in amounts near the Mississippi River, with
possibly little or no snow northeast of there. Any shift would
lead to significant forecast changes near this gradient,
including in the Twin Cities metro.

MNZ067-075-083-084-092-093-231030-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXB.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Sibley-Nicollet-Blue Earth-Waseca-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Gaylord, St Peter, Mankato, Waseca, 
Blue Earth, and Albert Lea
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow 
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Portions of central and south central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From 8 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for Wisconsin at
511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ058-066-076-085-231030-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0000Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXB.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Meeker-McLeod-Le Sueur-Steele-
Including the cities of Litchfield, Hutchinson, Le Sueur, 
and Owatonna
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Meeker, McLeod, Le Sueur and Steele Counties.

* WHEN...From 8 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for Wisconsin at
511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ068-069-077-231030-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0000Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXB.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180324T0400Z-180324T1500Z/
Carver-Scott-Rice-
Including the cities of Chaska, Shakopee, and Faribault
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 11 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 5 to 8 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Carver, Scott and Rice Counties.

* WHEN...From 11 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for Wisconsin at
511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ057-065-074-082-091-231030-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXA.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Kandiyohi-Renville-Brown-Watonwan-Martin-
Including the cities of Willmar, Olivia, New Ulm, St James, 
and Fairmont
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow 
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Kandiyohi, Renville, Brown, Watonwan and Martin 
  Counties.

* WHEN...From 4 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ073-231030-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180323T1600Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXA.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Redwood-
Including the city of Redwood Falls
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM CDT
SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 10 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Redwood County.

* WHEN...From 4 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ054-064-231030-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T1800Z-180324T1500Z/
Lac Qui Parle-Yellow Medicine-
Including the cities of Madison and Granite Falls
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 1 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM
CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 9 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Lac Qui Parle and Yellow Medicine Counties.

* WHEN...Snow will develop early Friday afternoon, but snow may
  not begin sticking until late afternoon. The warning is in 
  effect from 1 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ041-047-048-055-056-231030-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Douglas-Stevens-Pope-Swift-Chippewa-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Morris, Glenwood, Benson, 
and Montevideo
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM FRIDAY TO
10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 5 to 8 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Douglas and Pope Counties.

* WHEN...From 4 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ042-231030-
/O.NEW.KMPX.WW.Y.0012.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Todd-
Including the city of Long Prairie
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM FRIDAY TO 10 AM
CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 3 to 6 inches
  are expected.

* WHERE...Todd County.

* WHEN...From 8 PM Friday to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
The latest road conditions for Minnesota can be found at
511mn.org and for Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in
either state.

&&

$$

MNZ049-231030-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Stearns-
Including the city of St Cloud
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH
SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible. Total snow
  accumulations of 4 to 7 inches are possible, with the lightest 
  amounts along the Mississippi River.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, south central and 
  southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...From Friday evening through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

MNZ059-060-070-078-231030-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0400Z-180324T1500Z/
Wright-Hennepin-Dakota-Goodhue-
Including the cities of Monticello, Minneapolis, Hastings, 
and Red Wing
925 PM CDT Thu Mar 22 2018

...WINTER STORM WATCH NOW IN EFFECT FROM FRIDAY EVENING THROUGH
SATURDAY MORNING...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow possible. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 inches are possible in the southwest corner
  of the county, with only 1 to 3 inches likely near the 
  Mississippi River.

* WHERE...Portions of central, east central, south central and 
  southeast Minnesota.

* WHEN...From late Friday evening through Saturday morning.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph could cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

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

&&

$$

Borghoff

034 
WWUS43 KMPX 230848
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT... ...WINTER STORM WATCH
UPGRADED TO WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY... ...VERY SHARP SNOWFALL 
GRADIENT STILL EXPECTED TO SET UP NEAR OR JUST SOUTHWEST OF THE 
MISSISSIPPI RIVER...

.A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect across most of west 
central and south central Minnesota, with a Winter Weather
Advisory is now in effect along I-94 including the west metro.

The main forecast concern remains where the sharp gradient of
snowfall totals sets up on the northeast side of this winter
storm. Little has changed in the last 24 hours with the best
potential of this setting up along or just south of the
Mississippi River. Confidence has increased in this being the
location of the very tight gradient with this storm.

An initial band of rain and snow will develop across far western
MN early this afternoon, but the primary band of precip will
develop late this afternoon and into the evening across the
western portion of the state. The precipitation will initially
begin as a mix of rain and snow, but will quickly transition to
all snow this evening.

Snowfall amounts will range from 6 to 9 inches across western and
southern Minnesota. As mentioned before, there will be a sharp 
gradient in amounts near the Mississippi River, with possibly 
little or no snow northeast of there. Any shift would lead to 
significant forecast changes near this gradient, including in the 
Twin Cities metro.

MNZ054-064-231700-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Lac Qui Parle-Yellow Medicine-
Including the cities of Madison and Granite Falls
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS AFTERNOON TO
10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow
  accumulations of 6 to 9 inches and ice accumulations of a light
  glaze are expected.

* WHERE...Lac Qui Parle and Yellow Medicine Counties.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ041-047-048-055>057-065-073-074-082-091-231700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180323T2100Z-180324T1500Z/
Douglas-Stevens-Pope-Swift-Chippewa-Kandiyohi-Renville-Redwood-
Brown-Watonwan-Martin-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Morris, Glenwood, Benson, 
Montevideo, Willmar, Olivia, Redwood Falls, New Ulm, St James, 
and Fairmont
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 4 PM THIS
AFTERNOON TO 10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow 
  accumulations of 6 to 9 inches and ice accumulations of are 
  expected.

* WHERE...Portions of central, south central, southwest and west 
  central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From 4 PM this afternoon to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet
and ice will make travel very hazardous or impossible. The latest
road conditions for Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for
Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ058-066-067-075-076-083>085-092-093-231700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Meeker-McLeod-Sibley-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Blue Earth-Waseca-Steele-
Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Litchfield, Hutchinson, Gaylord, 
St Peter, Le Sueur, Mankato, Waseca, Owatonna, Blue Earth, 
and Albert Lea
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING
TO 10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow 
  accumulations of 6 to 9 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Portions of central and south central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From 8 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 40 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for Wisconsin at
511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ068-069-077-231700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.W.0005.180324T0400Z-180324T1500Z/
Carver-Scott-Rice-
Including the cities of Chaska, Shakopee, and Faribault
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 11 PM THIS EVENING
TO 10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Heavy snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 7 
  inches are expected.

* WHERE...Carver, Scott and Rice Counties.

* WHEN...From 11 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on difficult travel conditions. 
  Winds gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Warning for snow means severe winter weather
conditions will make travel very hazardous or impossible. If you
must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your
vehicle in case of an emergency. The latest road conditions for
Minnesota can be found at 511mn.org and for Wisconsin at
511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in either state.

&&

$$

MNZ059-060-070-078-231700-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0400Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXB.KMPX.WW.Y.0012.180324T0400Z-180324T1500Z/
Wright-Hennepin-Dakota-Goodhue-
Including the cities of Monticello, Minneapolis, Hastings, 
and Red Wing
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 11 PM THIS EVENING TO
10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 3 inches,
  with localized amounts up to 5 inches possible in extreme
  southwestern portions of these counties.

* WHERE...Wright, Hennepin, Dakota and Goodhue Counties.

* WHEN...From 11 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. In 
  addition, some reductions to visibility are likely. Winds 
  gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
The latest road conditions for Minnesota can be found at
511mn.org and for Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in
either state.

&&

$$

MNZ049-231700-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0005.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
/O.EXA.KMPX.WW.Y.0012.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Stearns-
Including the city of St Cloud
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS EVENING TO
10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow accumulations
  of 2 to 5 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Stearns County.

* WHEN...From 8 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. In 
  addition, some reductions to visibility are likely. Winds 
  gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
The latest road conditions for Minnesota can be found at
511mn.org and for Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in
either state.

&&

$$

MNZ042-231700-
/O.CON.KMPX.WW.Y.0012.180324T0100Z-180324T1500Z/
Todd-
Including the city of Long Prairie
348 AM CDT Fri Mar 23 2018

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 8 PM THIS
EVENING TO 10 AM CDT SATURDAY...

* WHAT...Snow and blowing snow expected. Total snow accumulations
  of 2 to 5 inches are expected.

* WHERE...Todd County.

* WHEN...From 8 PM this evening to 10 AM CDT Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. In 
  addition, some reductions to visibility are likely. Winds 
  gusting as high as 35 mph will cause patchy blowing and 
  drifting snow.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Be prepared for snow covered
roads and limited visibilities, and use caution while driving.
The latest road conditions for Minnesota can be found at
511mn.org and for Wisconsin at 511wi.gov, or by calling 5 1 1 in
either state.

&&

$$

Area Forecast Discussion
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
110 PM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

.SHORT TERM...(Today and tonight)
Issued at 417 AM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

Short term concerns are clouds and any precipitation this morning.

Water vapor imagery showing upper trough moving through central MN
at this time. Enough lift/moisture with this to generate some
flurries at this time. Will continue this trend to the east a
little farther before we should see forcing weaken further and run
into drier air to the east. We do see movement of S-SE about
15kts to the radar echoes and this will move into at least the
west metro this morning. Only anticipate flurries at this time.
Lower clouds are beginning to shift more southeast as well, but is
quite slow with some erosion continuing on the eastern flank.
Will try and time this into western Wisconsin by late morning. A
secondary trough is moving through central North Dakota at this
time. Mosaic radar is showing some echoes moving through eastern
North Dakota and currently expect main forcing will work into
northern MN during the day. High temperatures will remain tempered
by the clouds expected today with highs generally 35 to 40.

Expect clouds to continue tonight over much of the area, gradually
shifting a little more north overnight. Lows should remain in the
mid/upper 20s over the cloudy areas, perhaps dropping into the
upper teens again where clouds are thinnest, mainly over west
central WI.

.LONG TERM...(Thursday through Tuesday)
Issued at 417 AM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

After a dry day on Thursday with high pressure sliding over and
away from the area, models are still on track to indicate the
development of precipitation starting during the day on Friday. A
low pressure center emanating from the northern Rockies looks to
shift southeast through the Central Plains during the day Friday
along a leading edge frontal boundary. Aloft, moisture will merge
from the Pacific and Gulf source regions while isentropic lift is
heightened in advance of the low. Precipitation then looks to
overspread the entire coverage area Friday night through much of
Saturday before diminishing late day Saturday into Saturday
evening. While there is still high confidence in the occurrence of
precipitation for the late Friday through Saturday period, there
is still much uncertainty with respect to the precipitation-type
and timing of any changeovers. Models now indicate a slightly
cooler solution but also the potential for a dry lower layer
Friday night into Saturday morning. This would indicate a slightly
snowier solution but also the potential for freezing rain.
However, the dry layer solution is mainly brought about by the GFS
and is a relatively new entry into an already tricky forecast
solution. Given this difference, have opted to stay the course of
only advertising rain/snow with this event. In addition, QPFs look
to have quite the range from east to west across the WFO MPX
coverage area through this event. The bulk of west-central WI may
only see up to a tenth of an inch (possibly up to a quarter inch
near the KRGK area) while western and southern MN are likely to
receive between 0.50"-0.75", if not more. Given the transition to
-SN Friday night, this would produce a few inches of wet heavy
snow before changing back to rain during the day on Saturday as
the center of the system moves through the Mid- Mississippi River
Valley into the southeastern CONUS. The sharp delineation in QPF
looks to occur roughly along a Long Prairie-St Cloud-Twin Cities-
Red Wing line with the higher amounts to the west and lesser
amounts to the east. The amount of cold air entrained into the
system will also play a part, and this is evidenced by slightly
dropping max temps on Friday from previous model runs. Yet, should
the low level dry layer come to fruition, this would delay
saturation aloft and produce more FZRA than currently anticipated.
Thus, there are still many moving parts to this system that need
to be resolved before saying with any high degree of confidence
how much snow and/or ice may occur.

Then, once this system moves off to the east Sunday, another low
pressure system of a traditional Panhandle Hook variety looks to
develop on Monday and shift northeast into the Great Lakes through
Wednesday. This system also looks to bring a mixture of wintry
precipitation to the region, mainly Sunday night through Monday
night. Again, still plenty of uncertainty abounds with this system
with regards to details so there is still a lot of resolving to
do over the next several days.

The good news - models do indicate a warming trend for the middle
portion of next week which may bring upper 40s to near 50 degree
highs to the area.

&&

.AVIATION...(For the 18Z TAFS through 18Z Thursday afternoon)
Issued at 1247 PM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

Widespread IFR/MVFR conditions continue over Western and Central
due to low ceilings. Due to plenty of low-level moisture and weak
wave progressing through the area, we can expect the extensive
cloud cover to continue through the remainder of the day west of
EAU. Winds in Western MN will remain predominately southeasterly
at 5-10 kts through the evening while winds in Central MN and West
Central MN continue to be light and variable. Winds by late
tomorrow morning will be predominately easterly. Otherwise, due
to the low-level moisture, patchy fog will likely cause MVFR
visibilities and possibly IFR ceilings at AXN during the mid-
morning hours on Thursday.

KMSP... Midlevel cloud cover will remain in place with a chance
for MVFR clouds this afternoon and through the early overnight
hours. Otherwise, cloud cover will gradually clear on Thursday
with VFR conditions likely during Thursday afternoon. Otherwise,
winds will remain light and variable before becoming predominately
easterly Thursday afternoon.

/OUTLOOK FOR KMSP/
THU Night...VFR. Wind ENE 5 kts.
FRI...VFR early becoming MFVR with -RA/-SN. Wind ESE 10G15 kts.
SAT...MVFR with Chc -RA/-SN. Wind ESE 10G15 kts.

&&

.MPX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
WI...None.
MN...None.
&&

SHORT TERM...DWE
LONG TERM...JPC
AVIATION...AMK

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
1111 AM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

MNZ041>045-047>070-073>078-082>085-091>093-WIZ014>016-023>028-
221615-
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-
1111 AM CDT Wed Mar 21 2018

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...Thursday through Tuesday

Wintry precipitation is likely late Friday through Saturday.
Additional wintry precipitation is likely late Sunday into
Tuesday. Uncertainties exists on precipitation type and amounts,
and in terms of timing and locations of when any change in
precipitation type may occur. However, weather impacts of both
wintry weather and a prolonged duration of the precipitation are
likely.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

SKYWARN spotter activation will not be needed.