Central Minnesota Faces Sudden Midweek Weather Shift as Winter Storm Watch Targets Multiple Counties
ST. CLOUD, MINNESOTA — Central Minnesota is preparing for unstable weather as a fast-developing system is set to sweep across the region from Tuesday into early Wednesday. The National Weather Service warns that the storm will start with rain, transition quickly to accumulating snow, and bring wind gusts up to 40 mph, creating slippery roads and low visibility for thousands of commuters.
Winter Storm Watch Issued for Nine Counties
A Winter Storm Watch has been activated for multiple counties across Central Minnesota, including:
- Douglas
- Todd
- Stevens
- Pope
- Morrison
- Mille Lacs
- Kanabec
- Stearns
- Benton
These regions include major population centers such as St. Cloud, Alexandria, and Little Falls, putting tens of thousands of residents directly in the path of the incoming system.
Rain Turning to Snow Could Complicate Travel
The storm is expected to begin as rain Tuesday morning, but as colder air moves in from the west, rain will shift into snow during the afternoon and evening.
Forecasters say snow rates could reach up to half an inch per hour, enough to quickly blanket untreated roads.
“Plan on slippery road conditions. The hazardous conditions could impact the Tuesday morning and evening commutes,”
the National Weather Service emphasized in its early-week alert.
While total snowfall is expected to remain between 2 and 4 inches, winds gusting near 40 mph could cause blowing snow and sudden visibility drops — especially across rural open stretches of Central Minnesota.
Major Routes at Risk for Dangerous Conditions
Transportation officials are warning drivers who rely on key regional travel corridors, including:
- Interstate 94
- Highway 10
- Highway 23
Even modest snowfall totals can create serious travel challenges when combined with falling temperatures and wind-driven snow.
Commuters heading out Tuesday evening or early Wednesday morning should expect:
- Slick spots on bridges and ramps
- Rapid visibility changes
- Increased travel times
- Potential delays on bus routes and regional transport
What Residents Should Prepare For
As this is one of the first meaningful winter systems of the season, authorities recommend extra caution.
Residents should be ready for:
- A fast drop in temperatures Tuesday afternoon
- Rain turning to wet, heavy snow
- Strong winds reducing visibility
- Difficult morning and evening commutes
- Rural drifting on county roads
Even small shifts in the system’s track could alter snowfall totals or intensify blowing snow overnight.
Safety Tips for the Incoming Winter Weather
Officials encourage residents to take simple but important precautions:
- Allow extra travel time Tuesday and Wednesday
- Reduce speed on wet or snow-covered roads
- Check wipers, defrosters, and headlights before travel
- Carry blankets, chargers, gloves, and emergency items
- Avoid sudden stops or lane changes in blowing snow
- Stay home if conditions worsen overnight
This midweek storm is expected to test early winter readiness across Central Minnesota.
Final Outlook
With a rain-to-snow transition, gusty winds, and some of the first meaningful accumulation of the season, Central Minnesota should brace for a disruptive Tuesday evening and Wednesday morning. While snowfall totals will remain moderate, the combination of cold air, wind, and slushy roads may pose challenges for holiday-week travelers and daily commuters alike.
Residents are encouraged to monitor updates as conditions can shift quickly across the St. Cloud region.
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