Winter’s Heavy Hand: Snow and Sharp Winds Sweep Through Minneapolis

Morning: A Damp and Blustery Start

Minneapolis residents are waking up to a messy commute this Wednesday, February 18, 2026. As of early morning, the city is seeing cloudy skies with a mix of light drizzle and breezy conditions. The temperature currently sits at 43°F, but don't let the relatively mild reading fool you. With east winds blowing at 21 mph and gusts reaching up to 28 mph, the wind chill is already making it feel significantly colder, closer to 37°F. Humidity remains high at 94%, creating a damp, raw atmosphere across the Twin Cities.

Afternoon: The Transition to Snow

As we move into the afternoon, the weather is expected to take a sharp turn. The early morning rain and drizzle will transition into a more consistent rain-snow mix before turning over completely to snow. Forecasters predict a 65% chance of precipitation during daylight hours. Temperatures will likely peak early near 45°F before beginning a steady slide downward. Pedestrians and drivers should be prepared for rapidly changing surface conditions as slushy roads may begin to freeze over during the transition.

Evening and Overnight: Accumulation and Visibility Concerns

The winter weather will intensify this evening. The chance of snow rises to 70% tonight, with some models predicting significant accumulation. Reports suggest we could see upwards of 3.4 inches of fresh snow by morning. The National Weather Service warns that snow showers will be accompanied by blowing snow, which is expected to impact visibility on major highways and local roads throughout the night. Evening temperatures will drop toward a low of 30°F, while some outlying areas could see dips into the low 20s.

Travel and Safety Outlook

• Wind Warnings: Sustained winds from the east and gusty conditions will continue through the evening, potentially making high-profile vehicles difficult to handle.
• Visibility: Blowing snow is the primary concern for the late-night commute and early Thursday travelers; please reduce speeds and use headlights.
• Precipitation: A total snow accumulation of approximately 3 to 4 inches is expected, making for a busy night for local plow crews.

Stay tuned to local updates as this winter system moves through the region. Thursday is expected to remain cloudy with lingering snow showers and a high of only 34°F as the cold front fully settles in.