Minnesota Weather: Two Rounds Of Snow, Blizzard Warning This Weekend

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Two rounds of snow are tracking toward Minnesota this weekend, and the second could bring blizzard conditions to southern Minnesota along with another serving of significant snow.

Meteorologist Chris Shaffer says the first snowy wave will push up from the south Friday evening, hitting the Twin Cities just before midnight. The entire state will see some accumulation from this first storm, with most parts expected to get 1 to 3 inches. Temperatures will range between the mid-20s to low-30s, so this snow will be wet and heavy.

The second wave comes late Saturday evening and last until just after midnight -- which is when insane wind speeds will start to kick in. Much of the southern half of the state will be under a Blizzard Warning due to wind gusts roaring between 40 and 50 miles per hour, creating extremely hazardous driving conditions and large snowdrifts. The winds and snow will back off by early Sunday evening.

Meanwhile, heavy snowfall is expected in southeastern Minnesota, east of the Interstate 35 corridor. The National Weather Service says communities from Albert Lea to Red Wing could see up to 8 inches of fresh snow.

Following the snow will be a blast of cold air. Temperatures will dip below zero Monday and Tuesday, with highs only be in the single digits.

The next chance of snow looks to be Tuesday, albeit a light burst.