Major Winter Storm to Hit Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota and Iowa With 6–12 Inches of Snow Next Week
MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA — A powerful winter storm is becoming increasingly likely early next week, with forecast models showing a widespread swath of 6–12 inches of snow targeting Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Iowa. The system is expected to bring the most significant early-December snowfall of the season to the Northcentral U.S. and the Great Lakes region, creating hazardous travel conditions and widespread disruptions.
Heavy Snowfall Expected Across the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes
Meteorologists say confidence is rising as multiple models now agree on a strengthening low-pressure system sweeping across the region. The storm’s projected path places Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, and northern Iowa directly in the corridor of heavy, accumulating snow.
Early projections show the heaviest totals of 6–12 inches, with localized bands exceeding 12 inches where snowfall rates become more intense. Major cities such as Minneapolis, Fargo, Sioux Falls, Madison, Green Bay, and Marquette may see prolonged periods of steady to heavy snow beginning late Sunday and continuing into early Tuesday.
Strong Winds Could Create Whiteout Conditions
Forecasters warn that this system will tap into a surge of Arctic air, producing strong winds capable of causing blowing snow, drifting, and sudden visibility loss. Rural highways across the Dakotas, Minnesota, and Iowa could experience whiteout conditions, making travel extremely dangerous.
Behind the main system, colder air sweeping across the Great Lakes may generate lake-enhanced snow, adding additional accumulation for downwind communities in Michigan and Wisconsin.
Major Travel Impact Expected
Transportation officials are urging residents to prepare for:
- Snow-covered roads and difficult driving conditions
- Flight delays across major Midwest airports
- Reduced visibility due to blowing and drifting snow
- Potential school closures or delayed openings
- Icy surfaces as temperatures plunge behind the storm
This storm’s timing—arriving at the start of the workweek—may significantly affect commuters, shipping routes, and regional air travel.
Residents Urged to Prepare Now
With early-season cold firmly entrenched, the incoming snow will accumulate quickly. Residents across the affected states should:
- Check travel plans and expect delays
- Stock winter supplies including food, medications, and snow-melt products
- Prepare snow blowers and shovels
- Ensure vehicles have winter emergency kits
- Monitor updated forecasts for shifting snowfall projections
Forecasters emphasize that while model agreement is strong, the exact placement of the highest totals may shift as the storm approaches.
Stay connected with the Saluda Standard-Sentinel for continuing updates as this major winter storm develops.
