By Chetan Sharma
Minnesota is under a winter storm warning as a mix of freezing rain, sleet and snow forces schools to shut down or move to virtual learning ahead of a risky Thursday morning commute.
The system began moving in Wednesday evening with light rain and a mix of snow and sleet. But conditions are expected to worsen overnight, especially between midnight and early morning, when temperatures drop near freezing and precipitation turns into sleet and freezing rain.
That shift is likely to create icy and slushy roads across large parts of the state, including the Twin Cities. Officials warn that travel during the early hours of Thursday could be difficult, with slippery intersections, reduced visibility and uneven road conditions.
Schools acted early, announcing closures not because of heavy snowfall, but due to the risk of ice during peak travel hours. Bridges, overpasses and untreated roads are expected to freeze first, increasing the chances of accidents and delays.
The impact will vary across Minnesota. Northwestern areas may see more wet snow, southeastern regions are expected to get rain, while central parts face the most disruptive mix of ice and sleet.
Conditions are expected to slowly improve later in the day Thursday as temperatures rise into the mid-30s and precipitation turns mainly to rain. However, the morning commute is likely to see the worst conditions.
A winter weather advisory remains in effect, with warnings highlighting slippery roads and slower travel across the region. The system is expected to move out by Thursday evening.
Another round of rain and possible snow could arrive Friday into Saturday, keeping weather conditions unsettled before calmer skies return by Sunday.
Residents are advised to drive cautiously and stay updated through the National Weather Service as conditions change.
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