New Snowfall Prediction & Blizzard Warning Issued Ahead of Incoming Minnesota Storm

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News)- The National Weather Service has issued a new forecast for the major storm predicted to hit Minnesota this week. 

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Previous forecasts called for the storm to pack rain, thunderstorms, strong wind gusts and thunder snow. 

Forecasters acknowledged that timing and locations set to get the heaviest snow were still somewhat uncertain. 

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National Weather Service Updates Forecast for Major Storm Targeting Southern Minnesota

An updated forecast issued on Tuesday morning includes a new snowfall prediction. The National Weather Service also issued a Blizzard Warning Tuesday morning. 

Forecasters say the system will arrive with rain before switching to a wintry mix and eventually transitioning to snow. 

The National Weather Service says forecasters are expecting a heavy and narrow band of snow, but acknowledges there’s still uncertainty as to where the snow will fall.

Officials say that accumulations will depend on the timing of the transition from rain to snow.

Blizzard Warning Issued for Multiple Southern Minnesota Counties

The Blizzard Warning is scheduled to begin at 5:00 Wednesday morning and expire by 7 p.m. on Wednesday. 

It will be in effect for Blue Earth, Brown, Faribault, Freeborn, Le Sueur, Martin,  Nicollet, Rice, Steele, Waseca, Watonwan, and Goodhue Counties. 

Forecasters warn the predicted combination of heavy snow and wind gusts as high as 50 mph will create blizzard conditions and make travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening. 

New Forecast Calls For Up to a Foot of Snow in Rochester, MN & Surrounding Communities

Although Rochester is spared from the Blizzard Warning, forecasters are still calling for heavy snow. The latest forecast is predicting 6-12 inches in Rochester by Wednesday night. 

Communities to the west and north of Rochester are predicted to see accumulations closer to a foot, according to Tuesday morning’s forecast.

Widespread wind gusts of at least 40 mph are also expected across southeast Minnesota during Wednesday’s snowfall. 

Officials are advising everyone in the area targeted by the storm to avoid unnecessary travel. 

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