Minnesota Weather: What to Expect for Rain, Snow Overnight

A changing weather system is moving across Minnesota tonight, bringing rain in the evening and a transition to snow overnight in several areas.

Forecasters say the shift could create slick roads by early morning, especially in central and northern parts of the state. Temperatures hovering near freezing will determine who sees mostly rain and who wakes up to snow.

The mixed precipitation comes as a low-pressure system tracks east across the Upper Midwest, pulling colder air into the region.

Here’s how it’s expected to unfold.

Rain This Evening Across Southern Minnesota

Light to moderate rain is expected to spread across southern Minnesota through the evening hours, including the Twin Cities metro.

Temperatures are forecast to remain above freezing at first, limiting immediate concerns for icing. Roads may be wet but generally passable early in the night.

Winds could increase as the system moves through, adding to reduced visibility at times during heavier showers.

Snow Develops Overnight in Central and Northern Areas

As colder air filters in behind the system, rain is expected to mix with and change to snow from west to east.

Central Minnesota could see the transition first, with snow reaching parts of the Twin Cities area late tonight or toward early morning.

Northern Minnesota is more likely to experience primarily snow, with light accumulations possible before daybreak.

Snow totals are expected to remain modest, though localized higher amounts cannot be ruled out in areas where the changeover happens earlier.

Travel Concerns for the Morning Commute

The biggest concern is timing.

If snow falls steadily before sunrise, untreated roads and bridges could become slick. Even a thin layer of snow can create hazardous driving conditions, especially where pavement temperatures fall below freezing.

Motorists are encouraged to:

• Allow extra travel time

• Reduce speed on wet or slushy roads

• Be cautious on bridges and overpasses

• Watch for rapidly changing visibility

Airport delays are possible if snow intensity increases overnight, particularly in central Minnesota.

Why the Weather Is Changing So Quickly

Minnesota sits along a sharp temperature boundary with this system.

Milder air ahead of the low is supporting rain, while colder air wrapping in behind it is changing precipitation to snow.

These late-winter systems often produce mixed precipitation events, especially when temperatures hover near the freezing mark.

Even small temperature shifts of one or two degrees can significantly impact snow totals.

Key Forecast Details

What Happens Next

Precipitation is expected to taper off by mid to late morning in many areas.

Colder temperatures will settle in behind the system, which could keep some untreated surfaces icy into the morning hours.

Conditions should gradually improve during the day as crews treat roads and temperatures stabilize.

Residents are encouraged to check updated local forecasts before heading out and monitor any weather advisories issued overnight.

FAQ

Will it snow in the Twin Cities tonight?
A rain-to-snow mix is possible late tonight or early morning, depending on temperature changes.

How much snow is expected?
Most areas will see light accumulations, though totals may vary based on timing of the changeover.

Will roads be icy in the morning?
Some slick spots are possible, especially on bridges and untreated surfaces.

When will the precipitation end?
Rain and snow should taper off by mid to late morning in most locations.

Are weather alerts in effect?
Residents should monitor local forecasts for any advisories issued overnight.

Conclusion

Minnesota is expected to see a mix of rain and snow overnight as colder air moves into the region.

While snowfall amounts appear limited, timing could create slick roads for the morning commute.

Drivers are urged to remain cautious and stay updated on changing conditions as the system moves through.