Rain and Light Snow Predicted by Week’s End

The upcoming weekend is set to be influenced by two distinct weather systems. These systems will usher in rainfall and light snow across the region, with varying impacts. The first system will sweep in late Thursday, while the second will arrive Friday night.

Weather Forecast: Rain and Light Snow Predicted

System 1: Thursday into Thursday Night

The initial weather system is expected to arrive late Thursday and dissipate by Thursday night. This system will predominantly bring rain, especially during the early hours. Forecast models suggest significant rainfall mainly along a line stretching from Windom to Mankato and into the southern Twin Cities Metro area. Here, rainfall totals could near a quarter inch or slightly more.

• Locations in southeastern Minnesota, eastern Iowa, and parts of Wisconsin may experience higher rainfall amounts.
• Some areas could see isolated totals approaching an inch.

As temperatures drop on Thursday evening, rain may transition to snow, especially at the northern and western edges of the precipitation band. Snowfall is expected to be light; however, sufficient accumulation could lead to slick road conditions, particularly on untreated surfaces.

System 2: Friday Night into Saturday

Following a relatively calm Friday, a second weather system will bring light snow late Friday night into Saturday. Colder air will already be present, though moisture appears limited. Consequently, any snow accumulation is expected to be minor, predominantly in the southern and eastern regions.

• Forecast predictions suggest light snow amounts generally around one inch.
• In certain higher-impact areas, snowfall may reach up to two inches.

On Saturday, gusty northwest winds and dropping temperatures may be more impactful than the snowfall itself. Overall, neither weather system is anticipated to develop into a significant winter storm.

Key Observations

Impacts from these systems should remain generally minor. However, brief periods of slick conditions may occur during the transitions from rain to snow late Thursday and with light snow over the weekend. As weather conditions evolve, expectations will be revised accordingly, and updates will be communicated as necessary.