Winter Storm Warning Issued for Northern Cook and Lake Counties; Up to 15 Inches of Snow Expected
A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for Northern Cook and Lake counties from Tuesday night through Thursday morning, bringing heavy snow and wind gusts up to 50 mph.
Alert Details
The National Weather Service in Duluth has issued a Winter Storm Warning for portions of Northeast Minnesota. The alert was issued on February 16 and remains in effect from 9:00 PM CST on Tuesday, February 17, until 12:00 PM CST on Thursday, February 19.
Affected Areas
The warning specifically impacts Northern Cook and Northern Lake County. This area includes the eastern and central portions of the Boundary Waters.
What You Should Do
Residents and travelers are advised to take precautions. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. For the latest road conditions in Minnesota, call 511 or visit www.511mn.org.
Expected Conditions
- Snowfall Accumulations: Heavy snow is forecast with total accumulations between 4 and 8 inches. However, the higher terrain of the North Shore may see significantly higher totals ranging from 10 to 15 inches.
- Wind Speeds: Winds are expected to gust as high as 50 mph.
- Visibility: Near whiteout conditions are possible. Visibilities may drop to approximately 1/4 mile due to the combination of falling and blowing snow.
- Additional Details: Terrain enhancement will likely increase snowfall totals and rates along the North Shore terrain ridge in parts of central Lake County. The heaviest snowfall rates are anticipated Tuesday night and Wednesday morning.
Timeline
- Warning Start: Tuesday, February 17, at 9:00 PM CST.
- Peak Impact: Heaviest snowfall rates expected Tuesday night through Wednesday morning.
- Warning Expiration: Thursday, February 19, at 12:00 PM CST.
Source: NOAA Official Notice