Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan and the Upper Midwest Brace for Major Impacts as Winter Storm Ezra Triggers Blizzard and Winter Storm Warnings
MINNESOTA — Winter Storm Ezra is intensifying across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes, creating dangerous winter travel conditions as it pushes eastward toward the Northeast. Forecast data shows blizzard warnings, winter storm warnings, and winter weather advisories stretching across multiple states, with snowfall, strong winds, and near-whiteout conditions expected to worsen through Sunday night and into Monday.
The storm is already producing significant snow and blowing snow across parts of Minnesota and northern Wisconsin, while northern Michigan — including the Upper Peninsula — faces the threat of blizzard conditions with rapidly falling visibility.
Blizzard Warnings Issued Across Minnesota and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
Blizzard warnings are in effect for central and northern Minnesota, including areas near Fargo, Duluth, and Minneapolis, as well as parts of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, including areas near Marquette and Rhinelander. These regions are expected to experience sustained strong winds combined with heavy snowfall, meeting official blizzard criteria.
Wind gusts of 45 to 55 mph are forecast, which will cause blowing and drifting snow, making roads impassable at times. Even areas that receive lower snowfall totals may still face extreme travel hazards due to the wind.
Heavy Snow and Winter Storm Warnings Expand Across Wisconsin and Iowa
Large portions of Wisconsin and Iowa are under winter storm warnings, including Milwaukee, Green Bay, Cedar Rapids, and surrounding communities. Snowfall rates could become intense at times, especially overnight, with several inches of accumulation likely before the storm tapers off.
Forecast maps indicate the heaviest snow band running from southern Minnesota into central Wisconsin, where totals may reach levels capable of shutting down highways and delaying emergency response times.
Winter Weather Advisories and Icy Conditions to the West
Farther west, including parts of South Dakota and Nebraska, winter weather advisories remain in effect. These areas may see lighter snowfall totals, but hazardous travel is still expected due to slick roads, reduced visibility, and wind-driven snow.
Why This Storm Is Especially Dangerous
Meteorologists are emphasizing that Winter Storm Ezra is not just about snowfall totals. The combination of strong winds, falling temperatures, and prolonged snowfall increases the risk of stranded motorists, power disruptions, and emergency response delays.
Even urban corridors such as Minneapolis–St. Paul and Milwaukee could experience rapidly changing road conditions, especially during peak travel periods.
Travel and Safety Guidance for Residents
Authorities are urging residents across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes to avoid unnecessary travel, particularly during overnight hours when conditions are expected to be at their worst. Those who must travel should carry winter survival kits, allow extra time, and monitor local weather alerts closely.
Air travel disruptions are also possible at major regional airports as snow removal operations struggle to keep pace with accumulating snowfall and wind gusts.
Storm Shifts East Toward the Northeast on Monday
Winter Storm Ezra is expected to gradually shift toward the Northeast on Monday, spreading snow and travel disruptions into additional states. While conditions will slowly improve across parts of the Midwest, lingering blowing snow and cold temperatures may keep roads hazardous even after snowfall ends.
Stay Alert as Conditions Continue to Change
Weather officials stress that conditions may deteriorate quickly, and additional advisories or warnings could be issued as the storm evolves.
For music fans, event organizers, and travelers across the Midwest, this storm could affect concert schedules, venue operations, and regional travel plans through the start of the new week.
Stay weather-aware, follow local guidance, and prioritize safety as Winter Storm Ezra continues to impact the region.