Winter Weather Advisory Issued for Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin
Winter is knocking on our doors again, bringing snow and ice. Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin have a winter weather advisory out until midnight Sunday. This blog will give you tips to stay safe in the snowy mess.
Keep reading for all you need to know!
Current Weather Conditions
Right now, northern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin are seeing a lot of snow. The thermometer is dropping fast, making roads slick and hard to see on.
Snow accumulation and freezing temperatures
Snow falls hard and fast in Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. The Winter Weather Advisory tells us to expect up to 1 inch of snow in some places. But, wait for it, the Winter Storm Warning ups the ante with 3 to 8 inches of snow.
Ice might also sneak its way into the mix, making things slick.
Freezing temperatures tag along with the snow, turning roads into ice rinks. It’s a duo that’s not messing around. “The cold doesn’t bother me anyway,” said no one ever when slipping on ice or shoveling driveways for the umpteenth time this winter.
Slippery roads and reduced visibility
Roads are slippery in northern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin. Snow accumulations make driving hard. Black ice hides under that snow, creating dangerous conditions. Icy walkways add to the risk for pedestrians too.
Visibility is low because of blowing snow and fog. Drivers struggle to see even a short distance ahead. Whiteout conditions can appear quickly, making travel treacherous. The Minnesota Department of Transportation warns everyone to be cautious on the roads during this advisory period.
Stay safe out there!
Safety Recommendations
Winter can be tricky. Stay safe out there!
When driving, go slow. Watch for icy spots and don’t rush.
At home, check your heating. Make sure pipes won’t freeze.
Keep an emergency kit ready in case the power goes out. A little prep now can save a lot of trouble later!
Driving precautions and road safety tips
Driving in winter can be tricky. Slippery roads and low visibility make it hard to stay safe. Here are some tips for driving during a winter weather advisory:
- Slow down. Speeding increases your chances of losing control on icy roads. Give yourself extra time to reach your destination.
- Use your headlights. This helps other drivers see you, especially in snow squalls or whiteout conditions.
- Keep a safe distance from other cars. Increase the space between you and the vehicle ahead of you. This gives you more time to react if the car in front suddenly stops.
- Stay alert for traffic incidents. Check local traffic updates to avoid delays caused by accidents or bad weather around St. Louis counties or Duluth, Minn.
- Avoid sudden movements on the road. Quick turns or sharp brakes can lead to sliding on ice.
- Make sure your vehicle is ready for winter travel. Equip it with snow tires, a full fuel tank, and emergency supplies like blankets, flashlights, and first-aid kits.
- Limit non-essential travel during extreme cold watches or storm warnings unless absolutely necessary.
Follow these tips to stay safe while driving in northern Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin this winter!
Preparing homes for winter weather
Winter weather can be tough on homes. Preparing your space is key to staying warm and safe.
- Dress Your Home: Seal windows and doors. This keeps cold air out and warmth in. Insulation helps save energy, too.
- Stock Up Supplies: Gather essentials like food, water, and batteries. Power outages can happen with winter storms. Being ready makes a big difference.
- Check Heating Systems: Ensure your furnace works well before the cold hits. A tune-up now can prevent breakdowns later.
- Keep Walkways Clear: Shovel snow regularly from paths and steps. This prevents slips and falls during those whiteout conditions.
- Use Eco-friendly Options: Instead of salt, use sand or eco-friendly de-icers on slippery areas outside your home. It protects plants and waterways around you.
- Prepare for Emergencies: Have a plan for severe weather events like blizzards or freezing temperatures. Make sure everyone in the house knows what to do if you lose power or get snowed in.
- Stay Cozy Inside: Dress warmly with layers while at home too! Wear insulated boots, gloves, and hats when necessary to keep warm during those chilly days.
- Monitor Weather Conditions: Keep an eye on winter storm warnings from the National Weather Service. Staying informed helps you act quickly if conditions worsen.
Preparing your home now means less worry later when winter rolls in full force!
Areas Impacted by the Advisory
Winter weather is here, and it’s really hitting Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin. Snow will cover the ground, making travel tricky for many folks in these areas.
Northern Minnesota
Northern Minnesota is facing a tough winter. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory here. Snow accumulations will range from 3 to 7 inches along and north of the Iron Range.
For those in the Minnesota Arrowhead region, expect even more snow—between 6 to over 12 inches, especially in Cook County.
With these conditions, roads are likely to be slippery. Visibility might drop due to falling snow and wind. Residents should prepare for blizzard conditions as well. Stay safe by checking on neighbors and keeping warm at home!
Northwest Wisconsin
Northwest Wisconsin is under a Winter Weather Advisory until midnight on December 8, 2024. Snow accumulations could reach up to 1 inch. You might also see light glaze ice forming in some areas.
This can cause slippery roads and icy walkways. Visibility may drop as well, making driving tricky.
Stay cautious if you need to go out. The National Weather Service warns of potential hazards from freezing rain, so be careful while walking or driving. A little extra attention will help you stay safe during these cold days ahead! Next up is the impact on Northern Minnesota.
Conclusion
Winter weather is here, and it’s no joke. A Winter Weather Advisory for Northern Minnesota and Northwest Wisconsin means you need to be careful. Snow will fall, roads might get slippery, and visibility could be low.
Stay safe out there! Prepare your home and drive wisely. Bundle up, grab a hot drink, and keep an eye on the latest updates from the National Weather Service.