Frigid Temperatures Follow Recent Snowfall, Raising Concerns Across the Metro Area
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A recent snowstorm has subsided, but residents across the metro area are now bracing for a significant and possibly risky cold snap. while the snowfall itself wasn’t record-breaking, the combination of fresh snow cover and incoming arctic air is creating conditions for extremely cold temperatures in the coming days.
recent Snowfall Recap
The metro area experienced a prolonged period of light to moderate snowfall lasting 36 to 48 hours. According to a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, the storm deposited 5 to 6 inches of snow across the southern portions of the metro and 4 to 5 inches in the north. Despite the duration,the snowfall was not particularly heavy,and wind speeds remained relatively calm.
The deep Freeze Arrives
The immediate concern has shifted from snow removal to preparing for plummeting temperatures. “Cold air is moving in and with the fresh snow pack that is a recipe for really cold nights,” a weather expert explained. Monday morning will be “chilly” with temperatures reaching the mid-single digits in the metro area. Outside of the Twin Cities, the mercury is expected to drop to zero degrees or slightly below.
Though, the most severe cold is anticipated Wednesday night. Temperatures across the entire metro area are forecast to fall below zero, with areas outside the metro potentially experiencing temperatures as low as 10 to 15 degrees below zero.
Safety Precautions Urged
Given the frigid conditions, authorities are advising motorists to take extra precautions. A weather official recommends keeping a jacket and hat in vehicles, along with a fully charged mobile phone, in case of emergencies.
“We said winter was going to be moving in – and it has,” the meteorologist stated, underscoring the arrival of sustained winter weather.
White Christmas Prospects Increase
The recent snowfall,combined with the forecast for continued cold,is substantially increasing the likelihood of a white Christmas.”We are leaning towards it,” the expert said. “The odds are in your favor.” The existing snow cover is expected to remain on the ground, providing a picturesque backdrop for the holiday season.
Why: A significant cold snap is arriving after a recent snowstorm. The combination of snow cover and arctic air is causing dangerously low temperatures.
Who: Residents of the metro area, particularly those outside the Twin Cities, are affected. The national Weather Service and local authorities are providing information and safety advice.
What: A prolonged period of light to moderate snowfall (5-6 inches south, 4-5 inches north) has been followed by a forecast of plummeting temperatures, with lows potentially reaching 10-15 degrees below zero on Wednesday night.
How did it end? The article doesn’t describe an “end” to the cold snap, but it indicates the conditions are expected to persist, increasing the likelihood of a white Christmas. The article focuses on preparing for and mitigating the effects of the cold, rather than reporting on its resolution.
