The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for a large portion of southern Minnesota in effect from Friday evening through Saturday morning.

The Winter Storm Watch includes Dakota, Dodge, Goodhue, Le Sueur, Rice, Scott, Steele, and Waseca Counties (+more) -- and includes the entire Twin Cities metro area.

Rain, thunderstorms, snow, and a wintery mix are all possible today through tomorrow, before the precipitation changes over to all snow late Friday. In addition to the potential for heavy snow late Friday, strong northwest wind gusts of 40 to near 50 mph are expected to develop, which will lead to blowing and drifting snow.

National Weather Service
National Weather Service
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National Weather Service
National Weather Service
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There is uncertainty where the heaviest snow will fall, but most locations should see at least a couple of inches.

Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.

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