Key Takeaways
- A NEXT Drive Alert is in effect due to the potential for icy roads with possible freezing drizzle in northern and central Minnesota
- The alert will be in effect until 6 a.m. Friday, with untreated roads potentially getting slick between Thursday afternoon and Friday morning
- Areas north of Interstate 94 are at the greatest risk for freezing drizzle, with up to a tenth of an inch of ice possible in parts of northern and central Minnesota
- A winter weather advisory is in effect in both regions until Friday at 9 a.m.
- Cooler weather is expected on Sunday and Monday, with temperatures in the teens and single digits and windchills as low as 15 degrees below zero
Introduction to the Weather Alert
A NEXT Drive Alert has been issued due to the potential for icy roads with possible freezing drizzle in northern and central Minnesota. The alert will be in effect until 6 a.m. Friday, and drivers are advised to exercise caution when traveling during this time. Untreated roads could get slick between Thursday afternoon and Friday morning if temperatures are at or below freezing, making it essential for drivers to be aware of the conditions and plan their routes accordingly.
Areas at Risk and Expected Weather Conditions
Areas north of Interstate 94 are at the greatest risk for freezing drizzle, with parts of northern and central Minnesota potentially seeing up to a tenth of an inch of ice. A winter weather advisory is in effect in both regions until Friday at 9 a.m., indicating that the weather conditions will be hazardous and require extra caution. The drizzle is expected to wrap up before sunrise on Friday, but dense fog and freezing fog are a possibility that morning, which could further reduce visibility and make travel even more challenging.
Short-Term Weather Forecast
Friday will be cloudy with temperatures in the upper 30s, providing a brief respite from the freezing conditions. However, this reprieve will be short-lived, as cooler weather is expected to return on Sunday and Monday. Temperatures will drop to the teens and single digits, with wind gusts on Sunday afternoon potentially reaching up to 40 mph. The windchills will be particularly harsh, with temperatures feeling as low as 15 degrees below zero. This will make outdoor activities extremely uncomfortable and potentially hazardous, especially for vulnerable individuals such as the elderly and young children.
Long-Term Weather Outlook
Despite the cold snap on Sunday and Monday, a warmup is expected later next week. The forecast indicates a mix of sun and clouds, with no major storms predicted to end 2025. This will provide a welcome relief from the cold and icy conditions, and allow people to enjoy the outdoors without the burden of harsh weather. However, it is essential to stay informed about the weather forecast, as conditions can change rapidly, and it is always better to be prepared for any eventuality.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, the NEXT Drive Alert is a timely reminder of the importance of being aware of the weather conditions and taking necessary precautions to stay safe. Drivers should exercise extreme caution when traveling during the alert period, and plan their routes accordingly. It is also essential to stay informed about the weather forecast, both in the short-term and long-term, to be prepared for any changes in the weather. By taking these precautions, individuals can minimize their risk of being affected by the icy roads and freezing drizzle, and stay safe until the weather improves.
