National Weather Service United States Department of Commerce

Heavy Rainfall and Severe Thunderstorms Possible in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast Today; Dangerous Heat in the Southwest

Scattered severe thunderstorms containing the potential for damaging wind gusts and excessive rainfall are possible from the Mid-Atlantic to southern New England today, with additional thunderstorms and heavy rain possible across parts of the Plains and Middle Mississippi Valley. Heat and humidity remain along the East Coast and Interior Northwest, while dangerous heat builds into the Southwest. Read More >

Twin Cities, MN

Weather Forecast Office

Summary of November 17-18, 2016 MN Blizzard

Weather.gov > Twin Cities, MN > Summary of November 17-18, 2016 MN Blizzard



Overview

On November 17-18, 2016 atmospheric conditions (moisture transport, strong winds aloft, and low pressure) were ideal for heavy snowfall. Most of the snow fell on November 18, leading to a blizzard warning issued west of the Twin Cities metro region at 3 am. Total accumulated snowfall amounts up to 16 inches were reported in north-central Minnesota. Cities around the Twin Cities region experienced very poor visibility and high wind gusts on November 18 as well.

Snow

Total accumulated snowfall during 48 hours preceding Nov. 19
Blizzard warning issued Nov. 18 at 3 AM CST Winter storm warning issued Nov. 18 at 6 AM CST Winter weather advisory issued Nov. 18 at 12 PM CST

Radar:

 

 
NEXRAD reflectivity loop on Nov. 18 8-9 AM CST NEXRAD reflectivity loop on Nov. 18 9:15-10:15 AM CST NEXRAD reflectivity loop on Nov. 18 4:45-6 PM CST  

Environment

Moisture transport from the southern United States, a strong upper-level jet, a trough/low pressure, and high values of precipitable water created a favorable environment for blizzard conditions. These conditions led to heavy snowfall, low visibility, and high winds for most cities around the Twin Cities.