Overview of the Holiday Blizzard
A winter storm swept across Minnesota over the holiday weekend, blanketing much of the state with snow and creating treacherous travel conditions on several highways. Local weather teams issued alerts to help residents stay safe as accumulating snow reduced visibility and covered roadways. Here’s what the National Weather Service and local meteorologists reported as of the latest updates.
Where the Snow Fell Most Significantly
As of 6:45 a.m. today, the National Weather Service reported that Minneapolis saw about 5.8 inches of snow. This is the most detailed total available from the morning briefing, reflecting ongoing snowfall that may have continued into the early hours. Across nearby communities, snow totals varied widely depending on bands of lake-effect and moisture flow from the system. Some areas saw lighter accumulations, while others reported heavier amounts that slowed morning commutes before sunrise.
Urban Areas
Major metro areas experienced a mix of plow operations and road closures as crews worked to clear the main routes. Residents were advised to limit travel until conditions improved and to follow NEXT Weather alerts for real-time road and weather updates. The 5.8 inches in Minneapolis provides a useful benchmark for planners and travelers assessing how much snow fell in the core city compared with outlying suburbs.
Rural and Outlying Regions
Outside the Twin Cities, totals varied. Some northern and western counties reported several inches, while southern regions noted lighter accumulations. The distribution of snow was influenced by storm dynamics that brought bands of heavier snow in some corridors and lighter snowfall in others. Localized totals may be higher than initial measurements as snow bands shift and more snow is collected by weather stations throughout the morning.
Impact on Transportation
Road crews faced lengthy clearing operations as snowfall blanketed highways, interstates, and county roads. NEXT Drive Alerts helped drivers gauge road conditions and plan safer routes. Travelers were urged to allow extra travel time, slow down, and maintain safe following distances. School districts and employers also considered weather advisories when deciding on early dismissals or remote work arrangements.
How to Track Updated Totals
Snow totals can change as new data comes in from weather stations and regional radar analysis. For the latest figures beyond the 6:45 a.m. update on Minneapolis, residents should check:
- National Weather Service Local Forecast Offices for Minnesota
- WCCO and other local news weather trackers for real-time totals
- NEXT Weather alerts for road and travel advisories
If you’re reporting or documenting the storm, note that totals can differ by a tenth of an inch across nearby communities, and snow density can change how “heavy” the accumulation feels on the ground.
What to Expect Next
Meteorologists expect colder air to settle in after the storm passes, with potential light snow flurries continuing in some areas. Pack ice- and snow-removal supplies if you’re heading out, and keep windows defrosted for safer daytime travel. Stay tuned to NEXT Weather and NWS updates for the most current totals and travel guidance as the day progresses.
