Dangerous Cold Could Be Followed by Heavy Snow (UPDATE)

An approaching storm system could dump a foot of snow on portions of Iowa, and over six inches are possible in parts of southeastern Minnesota Monday night.

Rochester is on the northern edge of the area covered by winter storm watch that will be in effect from 3 p.m. Monday through 3 a.m. Tuesday. The National Weather says the storm's current track suggests the heaviest snow will fall in areas south of Rochester, but forecasters caution that could change.

The potential heavy snow will follow a period of dangerously cold weather in the region. The temperature is expected to drop through the day on Sunday and bottom out around -15 Monday morning and a west wind is forecast to produce wind chill readings in the -30 to -40 range well into the day on Monday. A wind chill advisory will remain in effect statewide through noon on Monday.

The weather system that pulled down a mass of arctic air brought 1 to 3 inches of snow to the region Saturday night and Sunday. 2.3 inches was reported at the Rochester Airport. The snow wasn't heavy, but howling winds caused major travel problems. As of Sunday afternoon, the Minnesota Department of Transportation reported most roadways in the Rochester area were partially covered by snow and ice, while roads in the far southeastern corner of the state were described as completely covered.