The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for a large portion of southern Minnesota in effect from Friday evening through Saturday morning.

The Winter Storm Warning includes Dakota, Dodge, Goodhue, Le Sueur, Rice, Scott, Steele, and Waseca Counties (+more) -- and includes the entire Twin Cities metro area.

A Blizzard Warning has been issued for western and southwestern Minnesota.

Rain and thunderstorms today will eventually change over to heavy snow tonight. In addition to the snow late tonight, strong northwest wind gusts of 40 to near 50 mph are expected to develop, which will lead to blowing and drifting. Blizzard conditions are expected in western Minnesota.

3 to 5 inches of new snow is expected across our area by morning, but it wont last long. Once the sun comes out Saturday it will start the melt down, and high temperatures in the low 50s are expected on Sunday.

National Weather Service
National Weather Service
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Extreme southern Minnesota, near I-90, could have severe weather in the late afternoon and evening. Chances are better further south and east, but wind, hail, and even a few tornadoes are possible.

National Weather Service
National Weather Service
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Plan on slippery road conditions. Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. The hazardous conditions could impact the evening commute. Gusty winds could bring down tree branches.

You can get the latest road conditions by calling 511, or online at 511mn.org.

Another storm system is in the forecast for early next week, but its too soon to have a good idea as to whether or not is will be a mainly rain or snow event.

KEEP READING: Get answers to 51 of the most frequently asked weather questions...

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