Nicollet County residents should expect around 6-9 inches of fluffy accumulation through tonight north of a line from Madison to Mankato to Eau Claire. Winds will be relatively light through this evening. There should be a break in severe winter conditions late tonight through early Thursday. Then, strong northwest winds gusting as high as 50 mph and dangerously cold air will surge in Thursday afternoon through Friday night. Whiteout conditions are expected during that time, with travel becoming very difficult or impossible. This event could be life-threatening if you are stranded with wind chills in the 30 below to 45 below zero range. Travel plans for late this week should be adjusted now. In addition, heavy snow remaining on trees from the last storm and strong winds could result in tree damage and power outages as temperatures drop below zero. A Winter Storm Warning is in effect through this evening. Then, a Blizzard Warning goes into effect Thursday across southern and western Minnesota, with the Winter Storm Watch continuing north and east where wind and blowing snow will begin a bit later.
Winter Storm Warning: Wednesday at 10 AM until noon Thursday
Blizzard Warning: From noon on Thursday - 6 AM Saturday
Wind Chill Watch: Thursday evening - Saturday morning