Full Breakdown
Upcoming Winter Weather Alerts for Minnesota and the Red River Valley
3/13/2026, 2:56:43 AM
Overview of the Weather Impact Alerts
Minnesota is bracing for a series of winter weather events that could significantly impact travel and daily activities. The KARE 11 weather team has issued two Weather Impact Alerts: the first begins Thursday afternoon and extends through Friday morning, while the second is set for Saturday evening into Sunday. These alerts indicate the potential for snow and strong winds that may affect commutes and weekend plans across the region.
Details of the First Weather Impact Alert
The initial alert, starting at 3 p.m. on Thursday, is expected to bring a quick burst of snow and rain to the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. This precipitation may disrupt the evening commute, with conditions expected to improve by Thursday night. However, strong wind gusts are anticipated to continue into Friday morning, complicating travel further. In northeastern Minnesota, a winter storm warning is already in effect due to expected higher snow totals.
Forecast for the Red River Valley
In the Red River Valley, particularly around Grand Forks, the National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch from 1 p.m. Thursday to 1 p.m. Friday. Meteorologist Jennifer Ritterling indicated that there is a 50% chance of blizzard conditions in the northern Red River Valley and northwest Minnesota. The area could see 2 to 5 inches of snow, depending on the storm's track. The forecast suggests that winds could reach up to 65 mph, particularly affecting areas with less snowfall but more blowing snow.
Anticipated Second Weather System
Following the first alert, a more organized winter storm is expected to arrive Saturday evening, continuing into Sunday. This system may bring "plowable" snowfall to the Twin Cities and southern Minnesota, although the exact snowfall amounts remain uncertain. The National Weather Service has noted that the storm's impact will depend on its southern or northern track, which is still being evaluated.
Criticism & Opposition
Some local residents have expressed frustration over the unpredictability of winter weather forecasts, citing past instances where predictions did not align with actual conditions. This uncertainty can lead to challenges in planning for travel and outdoor activities.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the KARE 11 weather team and the National Weather Service provide similar forecasts regarding the timing and potential impact of the storms, there are discrepancies in the predicted snowfall amounts and the likelihood of blizzard conditions. The exact track of the storms remains a point of contention, with varying predictions on whether the heaviest snowfall will occur in the northern or southern parts of the affected regions.
Verbatim Quotes
“Which one plays out? We’re still trying to figure that out, thus the Watch, but there’s about a 50% chance that we will see falling and blowing snow,” — Jennifer Ritterling, NWS Meteorologist
“More snow is expected, but it looks to be more southerly and south of I-94 at this point, but still a lot of uncertainty,” — Jennifer Ritterling, NWS Meteorologist
