A powerful winter storm is expected to move into the Twin Ports late Tuesday, bringing heavy snow, strong winds and the potential for blizzard conditions across northeastern Minnesota and northwestern Wisconsin.
Forecasters say a wintry mix will develop Tuesday evening before changing to all snow overnight. Temperatures are expected to fall to around 27 degrees, with east-northeast winds increasing to 25 to 35 mph. Gusts could exceed 50 mph at times.
Total snowfall of 8 to 12 inches, along with ice accumulation, is expected through Wednesday. The chance of precipitation is 100 percent.
Snow will continue Wednesday, with another 3 to 5 inches possible during the day as winds remain strong from the east-northeast at 25 to 35 mph. The high temperature is expected to reach about 30 degrees. Blowing and drifting snow could significantly reduce visibility, especially in open areas and along the Lake Superior shoreline.
Light snow Wednesday evening is expected to taper to snow showers overnight, with an additional 1 to 3 inches possible. Lows will dip to around 24 degrees, with winds decreasing to 15 to 25 mph.
Snow showers are forecast to continue Thursday, with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 28 degrees. About an inch of additional accumulation is possible. Winds will shift to the northeast at 10 to 20 mph.
Cloudy skies are expected Thursday night, with a low near 20 degrees and north winds at 10 to 15 mph.
Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate quickly Tuesday night and remain hazardous through Wednesday, particularly in Duluth and Superior. Motorists are urged to allow extra time, reduce speeds and prepare for rapidly changing visibility as the storm moves through the region.
