:: Second "Major" Winter Storm of Season
Although we have already seen 3 needless deaths across the area from the winter storm impacting our region, the winter storm now plaguing eastern MN and all of WI has only intensified. We now (1000 CST hour) have the snow beginning in earnest across the metro as the main energy of the systems spills retrograde from WI back into MN.
Overnight the surface low responsible for the event moved towards Lake Michigan and deepened significantly. As the upper level dynamics bend in the wake of the low, mid level frontogenisis has occurred north and west of the low. The area of dynamic convergence will spawn new snow bands that circulate in from WI over the metro area. In addition, winds have (and will continue to) strengthen behind the system. Winds now are clicking up to 15mph sustained with gusts over 25mph from the WNW. This will bring visibilities down to between 1/4 and 1/2 mile with the snow blowing in.
Accumulation-wise, we have seen only an additional 1/4" as of this writing, but forecasts point to a good potential for 3-4" by late this afternoon. A snow and blowing snow advisory has been posted for the area. Although weather is treacherous, we know that folks will be out and about regardless - what with holiday shopping and tonights Vikings game. Please, from all of us here at lakevilleweather.com - BE CAREFUL OUT THERE, STAY HOME IF POSSIBLE. DO NOT BECOME A STATISTIC.