Winter Storm Watch 8, NWS Twin Cities, MN

042 
WWUS43 KMPX 231742
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
1142 AM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...DANGEROUS WINTER STORM EXPECTED TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY...

.A Winter Weather Advisory continues through Saturday morning for
portions of west central Wisconsin through southeastern
Minnesota, specifically along and east of a line from Blue Earth
to Faribault in Minnesota, continuing to River Falls and Bloomer
in Wisconsin. Snowfall accumulations of up to around 2 inches
along with up to a tenth of an inch of ice accretion can be
expected through Saturday morning.

A stronger system is expected for Saturday night through Sunday
when accumulating snow plus blowing snow will impact travel,
including blizzard conditions for much of southern and western
Minnesota.

A Blizzard Warning is in effect Saturday evening through Sunday
afternoon for most locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin south of
I-94. This includes southern portions of the Twin Cities metro,
away from more suburban areas. Within the Blizzard Warning, snow
accumulations will range from 1 to 3 inches in the west near the
South Dakota border to 6 to 8 inches along Interstate 35 and
east. The snow is expected from late Saturday afternoon through
the early morning hours Sunday, followed by strong winds of 25 to
35 mph with gusts to near 50 mph for most of the day Sunday. This
could lead to whiteout conditions, making travel very difficult
or impossible in the open areas of western, central, and southern
Minnesota, and far western Wisconsin.

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect Saturday evening through
Sunday afternoon for St Croix, Barron, Rusk, Chippewa, and Eau
Claire counties. Within the Winter Storm Warning, snow
accumulations of 6 to 9 inches can be expected with localized
higher amounts possible. The snow is expected Saturday evening
through Sunday morning, followed by strong winds of 20 to 30 mph
with gusts to 40 mph for most of the day Sunday. This may produce
areas of blowing and drifting snow, making travel difficult for
portions of far southeastern Minnesota into west central
Wisconsin.

A Winter Storm Watch is in effect for the counties along I-94 for
the potential of 1 to 4 inches of snow and very strong wind.
Winds could gust as high as 40 to 45 mph which could lead to very
low visibility and dangerous travel.

MNZ084-085-092-093-240145-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0000Z-190225T0000Z/
Waseca-Steele-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Waseca, Owatonna, Blue Earth, 
and Albert Lea
1142 AM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Mixed precipitation today followed by blizzard conditions
  tonight and Sunday. Total snow accumulations of 4 to 7 inches 
  and winds gusting as high as 45 to 50 mph.

* WHERE...Waseca, Steele, Faribault and Freeborn Counties.

* WHEN...For the Blizzard Warning, from 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM 
  CST Sunday. For the Winter Weather Advisory, from midnight 
  tonight to 9 AM CST Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult or 
  impossible Saturday night into Sunday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow, sleet or
freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Expect slippery
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.

&&

$$

MNZ067>070-074>078-082-083-091-WIZ024>026-240145-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0300Z-190225T0000Z/
Sibley-Carver-Scott-Dakota-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-Rice-Goodhue-
Watonwan-Blue Earth-Martin-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-
Including the cities of Gaylord, Chaska, Shakopee, Hastings, 
New Ulm, St Peter, Le Sueur, Faribault, Red Wing, St James, 
Mankato, Fairmont, River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, and Durand
1142 AM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations 
  of 3 to 6 inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph.

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

* WHEN...From 9 PM Saturday to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult or 
  impossible Saturday night into Sunday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

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.

&&

$$

MNZ047-048-054>058-064>066-073-240145-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Stevens-Pope-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Kandiyohi-Meeker-
Yellow Medicine-Renville-McLeod-Redwood-
Including the cities of Morris, Glenwood, Madison, Benson, 
Montevideo, Willmar, Litchfield, Granite Falls, Olivia, 
Hutchinson, and Redwood Falls
1142 AM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Winds gusting as high as 
  45 mph with widespread blowing snow.

* WHERE...Stevens and Pope Counties.

* WHEN...From midnight Saturday night to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Areas of blowing snow could significantly 
  reduce visibility. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches. 
  The cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero could cause 
  frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

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.

&&

$$

WIZ015-016-023-027-028-240145-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.W.0007.190224T0300Z-190225T0000Z/
Barron-Rusk-St. Croix-Chippewa-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Rice Lake, Ladysmith, Hudson, 
Chippewa Falls, and Eau Claire
1142 AM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING
TO 6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Snow accumulations of 5 to 9 inches and winds gusting 
  as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Barron, Rusk and St. Croix Counties.

* WHEN...From 9 PM this evening to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

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.

&&

$$

MNZ041-042-049-051-059>063-WIZ014-240145-
/O.CON.KMPX.WS.A.0008.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Douglas-Todd-Stearns-Sherburne-Wright-Hennepin-Anoka-Ramsey-
Washington-Polk-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Long Prairie, St Cloud, 
Elk River, Monticello, Minneapolis, Blaine, St Paul, Stillwater, 
and Osceola
1142 AM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...WINTER STORM WATCH REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH
SUNDAY AFTERNOON...

* WHAT...Snow and blowing snow possible with wind gust as high 
  as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Portions of northwest Wisconsin and central, east 
  central and west central Minnesota.

* WHEN...From late tonight through Sunday afternoon.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The cold 
  wind chills as low as 20 below zero could cause frostbite on 
  exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Storm Watch means there is potential for snow and
blowing snow that may impact travel. Continue to monitor the
latest forecasts.

&&

$$

956 
WWUS43 KMPX 232102
WSWMPX

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...DANGEROUS WINTER STORM EXPECTED TONIGHT THROUGH SUNDAY...

.A very strong low pressure system is expected for tonight 
through Sunday when accumulating snow plus significant blowing 
snow will impact travel, including blizzard conditions for much of
southern and western Minnesota and into western WI.

A Blizzard Warning is in effect Saturday evening through Sunday
afternoon for most locations in Minnesota and Wisconsin along and south
of I-94. This includes southern portions of the Twin Cities 
metro, away from more suburban areas. Within the Blizzard Warning,
snow accumulations will range from less than an inch in western MN  
to 6 to 10 inches along Interstate 90 and into west central WI, 
primarily south and east of the Twin Cities. The snow is expected 
from late Saturday afternoon through the early morning hours 
Sunday, followed by strong winds of 30 to 40 mph with gusts to 
near 50 mph for most of the day Sunday. This will lead to whiteout
conditions, making travel very difficult and likely impossible in
the open areas of western, central, and southern Minnesota, and 
far western Wisconsin.

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect Saturday evening through
Sunday afternoon for St Croix, Barron, Rusk, Chippewa, and Eau
Claire counties. Within the Winter Storm Warning, snow
accumulations of 6 to 12 inches can be expected with localized
higher amounts possible, especially in the Eau Claire area. The 
snow is expected Saturday evening through Sunday morning, followed
by strong winds of 20 to 30 mph with gusts to 40 mph for most of 
the day Sunday. This may produce areas of blowing and drifting 
snow, making travel difficult for portions of far southeastern 
Minnesota into west central Wisconsin.

A Winter Weather Advisory is in effect for the counties along and
north of I-94 for the potential of 1 to 3 inches of snow and very
strong wind. Winds could gust as high as 40 to 45 mph which could
lead to very low visibility, blowing and drifting snow, and 
dangerous travel.

MNZ041-042-049-051-059-240515-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0008.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
/O.EXA.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Douglas-Todd-Stearns-Sherburne-Wright-
Including the cities of Alexandria, Long Prairie, St Cloud, 
Elk River, and Monticello
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 6 PM CST
SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations of
  up to one inch expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 to 50 mph.

* WHERE...Douglas, Todd, Stearns, Sherburne and Wright Counties.

* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions.
  Widespread blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. 
  The cold wind chills as low as 20 below zero could cause 
  frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 minutes.

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. 

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.

&&

$$

MNZ077-078-082-083-091-WIZ024>026-240515-
/O.EXT.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0000Z-190225T0000Z/
Rice-Goodhue-Watonwan-Blue Earth-Martin-Pierce-Dunn-Pepin-
Including the cities of Faribault, Red Wing, St James, Mankato, 
Fairmont, River Falls, Prescott, Menomonie, and Durand
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO 6 PM
CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations of
  5 to 9 inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 to 50 mph.

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

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult or 
  impossible Saturday night into Sunday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

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.

&&

$$

MNZ068-240515-
/O.EXT.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Carver-
Including the city of Chaska
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO 6 PM
CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations of
  1 to 2 inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 to 50 mph.

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

* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel could be very difficult or 
  impossible Saturday night into Sunday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

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.

&&

$$

WIZ015-016-023-027-028-240515-
/O.EXT.KMPX.WS.W.0007.190224T0000Z-190225T0000Z/
Barron-Rusk-St. Croix-Chippewa-Eau Claire-
Including the cities of Rice Lake, Ladysmith, Hudson, 
Chippewa Falls, and Eau Claire
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...WINTER STORM WARNING NOW IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Snow accumulations of 8 to 12 inches with locally higher
  amounts possible and winds gusting as high as 40 mph.

* WHERE...Barron, Rusk and St. Croix Counties.

* WHEN...From 6 PM this evening to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel will be very difficult. Falling and
  blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility.

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.

&&

$$

MNZ084-085-092-093-240515-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0000Z-190225T0000Z/
Waseca-Steele-Faribault-Freeborn-
Including the cities of Waseca, Owatonna, Blue Earth, 
and Albert Lea
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Mixed precipitation today followed by blizzard 
  conditions tonight and Sunday. Total snow accumulations of 5 
  to 11 inches and winds gusting as high as 45 to 50 mph.

* WHERE...Waseca, Steele, Faribault and Freeborn Counties.

* WHEN...For the Blizzard Warning, from 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM 
  CST Sunday. For the Winter Weather Advisory, from midnight 
  tonight to 9 AM CST Saturday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel will be very difficult or 
  impossible Saturday night into Sunday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

A Winter Weather Advisory means that periods of snow, sleet or
freezing rain will cause travel difficulties. Expect slippery
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.

&&

$$

MNZ067-069-070-074>076-240515-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0300Z-190225T0000Z/
Sibley-Scott-Dakota-Brown-Nicollet-Le Sueur-
Including the cities of Gaylord, Shakopee, Hastings, New Ulm, 
St Peter, and Le Sueur
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM 9 PM THIS EVENING TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Total snow accumulations of
  2 to 5 inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 to 50 mph.

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

* WHEN...From 9 PM Saturday to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Travel will be very difficult or 
  impossible late Saturday night into Sunday.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

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.

&&

$$

MNZ047-048-054>058-064>066-073-240515-
/O.CON.KMPX.BZ.W.0003.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Stevens-Pope-Lac Qui Parle-Swift-Chippewa-Kandiyohi-Meeker-
Yellow Medicine-Renville-McLeod-Redwood-
Including the cities of Morris, Glenwood, Madison, Benson, 
Montevideo, Willmar, Litchfield, Granite Falls, Olivia, 
Hutchinson, and Redwood Falls
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...BLIZZARD WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Blizzard conditions expected. Winds gusting as high as 
  45 to 50 mph with widespread blowing snow.

* WHERE...Stevens and Pope Counties.

* WHEN...From midnight Saturday night to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Widespread of blowing snow could 
  significantly reduce visibility. Gusty winds could bring down 
  tree branches. The cold wind chills as low as 25 below zero 
  could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as 30 
  minutes.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Blizzard Warning means severe winter weather conditions are
expected. 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.

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.

&&

$$

MNZ063-WIZ014-240515-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0008.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WW.Y.0019.190224T0300Z-190225T0000Z/
Washington-Polk-
Including the cities of Stillwater and Osceola
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

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

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 2 to 4 
  inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph.

* WHERE...In Wisconsin, Polk County. In Minnesota, Washington 
  County.

* WHEN...From 9 PM this evening to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy 
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect 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.

&&

$$

MNZ060>062-240515-
/O.UPG.KMPX.WS.A.0008.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
/O.NEW.KMPX.WW.Y.0019.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Hennepin-Anoka-Ramsey-
Including the cities of Minneapolis, Blaine, and St Paul
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of 1 to 2 inches 
  expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph.

* WHERE...Hennepin, Anoka and Ramsey Counties.

* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Blowing 
  snow could significantly reduce visibility.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect snow covered roads
and limited visibilities due to blowing and drifting snow, 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.

&&

$$

MNZ043>045-050-052-053-240515-
/O.NEW.KMPX.WW.Y.0019.190224T0600Z-190225T0000Z/
Morrison-Mille Lacs-Kanabec-Benton-Isanti-Chisago-
Including the cities of Little Falls, Princeton, Mora, Foley, 
Cambridge, and Center City
302 PM CST Sat Feb 23 2019

...WINTER WEATHER ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM MIDNIGHT TONIGHT TO
6 PM CST SUNDAY...

* WHAT...Snow expected. Total snow accumulations of up to two 
  inches expected. Winds gusting as high as 45 mph.

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

* WHEN...From midnight tonight to 6 PM CST Sunday.

* ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Plan on slippery road conditions. Patchy
  blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

A Winter Weather Advisory for snow means periods of snow will
cause primarily travel difficulties. Expect 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
1040 PM CST Fri Feb 22 2019

.UPDATE...For 06Z Aviation discussion below

&&

.SHORT TERM...(Tonight through Saturday)
Issued at 414 PM CST Fri Feb 22 2019

For the remainder of today and tomorrow morning, a lead wave will
lift in from the south ahead of the main system for later this
weekend and bring light snow followed by a period of light
freezing drizzle mainly from the Twin Cities southward. Decent
theta-e advection and isentropic ascent will lead to moderate
snowfall rates overnight across a very broad area which
encompasses essentially all of southern MN and western WI. Not
much has changed with expectations with this initial wave, with
1-3" of snowfall expected followed by freezing drizzle. The snow
will essentially be over by daybreak.

Dry mid level air will fill in as this initial wave moves east
into Wisconsin toward the early morning hours tomorrow. Model
soundings continue to show low level omega in place at roughly
900mb with saturation from about -4C to 0C, hence the forecast for
freezing drizzle overnight into tomorrow morning. Impacts from
freezing drizzle are questionable given amounts will be less than
0.1", temepratures will be rising through the mid 20s overnight,
and volume on the roadways will be low given it's a weekend.
Still, soundings from south central MN through western WI near Eau
Claire indicate stronger low level forcing for freezing drizzle
early in the morning, so went ahead with neighboring offices and
issued a winter weather advisory overnight through mid-morning
tomorrow.

Temperatures will rise above freezing by mid day and with
radiation strength increasing this time of year, don't expect
impacts beyond mid morning for travelers.

.LONG TERM...(Saturday night through Friday)
Issued at 414 PM CST Fri Feb 22 2019

Significant winter storm impacts are expected Saturday night
through Sunday due to likely blizzard conditions and heavy snow
accumulations.

The upper level trough which had been resident over the western
CONUS will finally pull its anchor and slingshot across the
central CONUS Saturday through Sunday, moving across southeastern
Canada by late Sunday afternoon. It will pick up a developing low
pressure system over the southern Plains and push it into the
Great Lakes by Sunday morning. Not only will this system pick up
and drag Pacific moisture with it into the Upper Mississippi River
Valley but the Gulf of Mexico will proverbially be open for
business. In this sense, not only will moisture be shunted well
north but so will enough moisture such that a mixture of freezing
drizzle/rain and snow will be ongoing at the start of Saturday
night before enough cold air is dragged into the system to convert
all p-type to snow. The snow will become mod-heavy at times
Saturday night through Sunday morning, with rates over eastern MN
into western WI at or near 1 in/hr. Accumulations of 6-9" will be
commonplace from far eastern MN through western WI with amounts
dropping off going westward toward the SD border. This snow will
be most if not entirely diminished by late Sunday morning. But,
even before the snow ends, strong winds on the backside of this
system will move into southern and central MN and eventually
western WI for Sunday. Sustained winds in southwestern and south-
central MN will increase to 25-35mph with gusts upwards of 50mph,
which should ably produce blizzard conditions over much of the MN
portion of the WFO MPX coverage area. It is in these portions
where a Blizzard Warning has been issued, which does include
southern portions of the Twin Cities metro (Carver, Scott, Dakota)
to account for more rural portions of each of those counties. To
the east of the Blizzard Warning, a Winter Storm Warning has been
issued to account for the expected snow accumulations in excess of
6 inches for Goodhue County and portions of west-central
Wisconsin. Although wind speeds will be less, they will not be
much less so conditions close to blizzard-like could be realized.

For additional details, please refer to the Winter Weather Message
which contains specifics about the snow accumulations, ice
accretions and wind speeds expected along with the timing of the
Blizzard Warning and Winter Storm Warning.

This system moves far enough away and winds down Sunday night
through Monday but strong cold air advection partially responsible
for the strong winds will bring in another dose of arctic air for
the first half of next week. While no significant snow systems are
evident through the first half of next week, a few minor passing
systems may bring light snow from time to time with only minor
snow accumulations. The main sensible aspect will be highs
dropping to the single digits and teens for much of next week with
lows dropping back below zero.

&&

.AVIATION...(For the 06Z TAFS through 06Z Saturday night)
Issued at 1040 PM CST Fri Feb 22 2019

Light precipitation will spread north and east across the area
overnight, with associated IFR/LIFR conditions becoming
widespread. Freezing drizzle and Fog/BR will be a possibility
Saturday morning as the snow is tapering off. Most sites will
experience a break in the precipitation late Saturday morning
through the afternoon, and then heavier snow arrives Saturday
evening. East/southeast winds at 6-9 knots prevail through
Saturday afternoon, then shift to the north/northwest on Saturday
evening as the front passes. Speeds will increase on Saturday
night to 15-25 knots sustained with gusts into the 30s. Areas of
blowing snow will develop, yielding MVFR/IFR visibility even
where it isn't snowing.

KMSP...
Light snow is expected to start early in the period and continue
overnight, with ceilings lowering from MVFR to IFR. The threat
for a few hours of freezing drizzle after 12Z remains. Ice
accumulations around five hundredths of an inch are possible.

/OUTLOOK FOR KMSP/
Sun...Morning SN/IFR likely. Wind NW 25G40kts.
Mon...MVFR cigs. Winds Light & Variable.
Tue...MVFR with -sn likely. Winds E 5-10 kts.

&&

.MPX WATCHES/WARNINGS/ADVISORIES...
WI...Winter Weather Advisory until 9 AM CST Saturday for WIZ024>028.

     Winter Storm Warning from 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM CST Sunday for
     WIZ015-016-023>028.

MN...Blizzard Warning from 9 PM Saturday to 6 PM CST Sunday for
     MNZ067>070-074>077-082-083-091.

     Blizzard Warning from midnight Saturday night to 6 PM CST Sunday
     for MNZ054>058-064>066-073.

     Winter Weather Advisory until 9 AM CST Saturday for MNZ077-078-
     084-085-092-093.

     Blizzard Warning from 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM CST Sunday for
     MNZ084-085-092-093.

     Winter Storm Warning from 6 PM Saturday to 6 PM CST Sunday for
     MNZ078.

&&

SHORT TERM...SPD
LONG TERM...JPC
AVIATION...LS

Hazardous Weather Outlook
National Weather Service Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN
923 AM CST Fri Feb 22 2019

MNZ041>045-047>070-073>078-082>085-091>093-WIZ014>016-023>028-
231200-
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-
923 AM CST Fri Feb 22 2019

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

.DAY ONE...Today and Tonight

Accumulating snow, generally between 1 and 3 inches, can be
expected this afternoon through overnight tonight across the
entire coverage area. In addition, a few hundredths of an inch of
icing can be expected over southern Minnesota into western
Wisconsin, the highest of which will be over far southern
Minnesota.

.DAYS TWO THROUGH SEVEN...Saturday through Thursday

A major winter storm will bring strong winds, accumulating snow and
a light wintry mix to most locations Saturday through Sunday.
There will be a narrow swath of heavy snow, likely over
southeastern Minnesota into western Wisconsin. A Winter Storm
Watch is in effect for portions of southern Minnesota and west
central Wisconsin. Please refer to the Winter Weather Message for
additional information.

Additional minor snow accumulation is possible Monday night
through Tuesday night.

.SPOTTER INFORMATION STATEMENT...

Spotters and snowfall observers are urged to report snowfall
amounts to the National Weather Service.