Tuesday forecast update for Minneapolis: clouds increasing, light snow possible, then dangerous cold later week

Clouds build Tuesday as a fast-moving system approaches

Minneapolis is expected to see a relatively calm but cold Tuesday, January 20, with increasing cloud cover after sunrise and temperatures remaining in the teens. Forecast guidance indicates the afternoon trends cloudier, with only limited precipitation expected in the metro area.

By late afternoon and early evening, a narrow band of light snow is expected to develop first across western Minnesota and then track generally east-southeast. In the Twin Cities, the most likely outcome is scattered flakes or a light dusting, with the best chance for measurable accumulation south of the metro as the system passes.

Wednesday: intermittent flurries and light accumulation potential

Wednesday, January 21, is shaping up as mostly cloudy with periodic flurries. Some model scenarios support light snow developing later Wednesday, which could bring minor accumulations. While totals appear limited, even small amounts can create slick spots on untreated surfaces, especially during morning and evening travel windows.

• High temperatures are projected to rise into the upper teens to lower 20s on Wednesday.
• Winds are expected to become more noticeable at times, contributing to lower wind chill values than air temperature alone would suggest.

Late-week shift: a plunge into extreme cold

The larger story in the extended outlook is a pronounced late-week cold surge. Forecasts point to sharply colder air arriving Thursday and intensifying into Friday, with daytime highs falling toward or below zero and overnight lows dropping well below zero. The coldest period is expected Friday, January 23, when subzero highs are possible in Minneapolis and the broader metro.

As temperatures fall, wind chills are expected to become a primary hazard. Even moderate winds can push wind chill readings into ranges associated with frostbite risk on exposed skin, particularly during early morning hours.

Forecast confidence is highest on the overall pattern: limited snow in the short term followed by a significant late-week cold wave.

What to watch for in the next updates

Because the Tuesday-to-Wednesday system is fast-moving and relatively moisture-limited, small track changes can determine whether Minneapolis sees only flurries or a brief period of steadier light snow. Residents should monitor updates for two practical impacts: the timing of any evening flakes Tuesday and whether Wednesday’s intermittent snow becomes more organized.

Separately, the late-week cold appears more certain than the snowfall details. The most consequential planning questions are expected to center on wind chill severity and the duration of the coldest stretch heading into the weekend.