Summary of the Holiday Blizzard Itself
A powerful winter storm swept across Minnesota over the holiday weekend, delivering heavy snowfall in many parts of the state and creating treacherous driving conditions. Meteorologists and local stations issued alerts urging residents to stay off the roads when possible and to monitor road conditions as crews deployed plows and salt along state highways. The storm’s impact varied by region, with the metro area reporting measurable snowfall and several northern communities seeing higher totals.
Latest Totals From the National Weather Service
As of 6:45 a.m., the National Weather Service reported that Minneapolis received about 5.8 inches of new snow. Snow accumulations beyond the Twin Cities varied widely, with some suburbs and nearby towns recording similar amounts while others saw lighter or heavier totals depending on lake-effect bands, winds, and timing of snowfall.
Across Minnesota, totals ranged from a few inches in some southern and southeastern corridors to more than a foot in select higher-elevation or open-country locations where snowfall intensified overnight. The NWS cautions that drifting can skew surface measurements, and standing snow on roadways can differ from what is recorded in sheltered spots.
What This Means for Travel and Road Conditions
Travel advisories and NEXT alerts remained in effect as crews worked to clear major routes and state highways. Drivers should expect slick pavement, reduced visibility, and lingering snowbanks along road shoulders. If you must travel, allow extra time, reduce speeds, and keep a winter emergency kit in the car. Local authorities urged drivers to be mindful of plow trucks and to adhere to posted speed limits, especially on secondary roads that may not have been fully plowed yet.
Individual totals will continue to be updated as crews complete plowing operations and as new snow bands move through the region. Check your local weather service alerts and highway cameras for the most current conditions before heading out.
Regional Breakdown: What to Expect
The metro area experienced several inches of new snow, with suburbs reporting near-identical totals in many cases. In rural northern Minnesota, heavier bands produced higher accumulations, while some southern counties saw lighter amounts due to the storm’s track and wind patterns. Blowing snow and drifting also affected visibility in open areas, making road maintenance more challenging overnight and into the morning commute.
Residents should be prepared for continued winter weather hazards, including snow-covered sidewalks, frosted driveways, and potential power outages caused by gusty winds and heavy snow loads on trees and powerlines. Local crews will likely focus efforts on clearing arterial routes first, with neighborhood streets receiving attention as weather conditions permit.
What to Watch Next
Stay tuned to local broadcasters and the National Weather Service for updates on snowfall totals as the storm tapers off and road crews complete their work. A new round of snow accumulation or a shift in the storm’s path could bring additional adjustments to totals in the coming hours. If you live in areas prone to winter weather, consider a brief review of winter preparedness steps: maintain a stocked vehicle kit, ensure your phone is charged, and keep warm clothing and blankets accessible in your home and car.
Bottom Line
The holiday blizzard brought meaningful snowfall to Minnesota, with the latest official readings showing Minneapolis at roughly 5.8 inches in the early morning hours. Totals across the state continue to evolve, so checking the latest NWS updates and your local weather alerts remains essential for safe travel and planning.
