Snowfall forecast changes: Chris Reece has the latest on what to expect this weekend

Good Thursday evening to one and all! After strong winds gusting over 50 miles per hour at times today, focus is all in on a snowmaker that looks to arrive headed into the weekend.

Tonight, winds will relax as overnight lows fall into the single digits. Wind chills will be in the single digits below zero headed out the door Friday morning. Clouds will increase throughout the day ahead of an approaching snow maker that has trended a little bit faster in the last 24 hours, now arriving as fast as the evening hours on Friday.

Minnesota’s Weather Authority has issued a Forecast First ALERT starting Friday night and lasting through Saturday afternoon.

SNOWFALL: Widespread accumulating snowfall is expected across much of Minnesota and Western Wisconsin. As of now, snow totals look to range from 3 to 5 inches. Travel delays are likely due to snow covered and icy roads

TIMING:
– 8PM Friday – Midnight: Snow arrives from west to east, gradually increasing in intensity as the night goes on.
– Midnight – 6AM Saturday: This is when the steadiest and most widespread snow falls. Travel will likely be most difficult during this time.
– 6AM – Noon Saturday: Snow begins to taper down, with conditions gradually improving during the afternoon.

IMPACT: Snow covered and icy roads will lead to travel disruptions and delays. Plan ahead for extra time, especially if traveling Saturday morning.

This is Minnesota, we can handle this type of snowfall, though it could be the second largest snowfall we’ve seen so far this winter. We’ve handled worse before, and we’ll handle worse again. Just be sure to take proper precautions and be pro-active not RE-active when it comes to weather.

As always, stay tuned to Minnesota’s Weather Authority for changing conditions as our next snowfall arrives.