Area to get wintry weather for Christmas

Published 9:40 am Tuesday, December 22, 2009

The National Weather Service forecasts a snowstorm to hit the Upper Midwest on Wednesday afternoon.

Sure, snow will move through today, but here is what the National Weather Service says in the winter storm watch issued for the region:

“A more significant storm system is expected to impact the Upper Midwest starting Wednesday afternoon. And last through Friday. Due to the strength of this system and the prolonged period for which the snowfall is expected. There will be major impacts to travelers, especially due to the upcoming holiday.”

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The forecast says snowfall accumulation could exceed a foot in some places of Minnesota and Wisconsin. It also says southern Minnesota can expect “near-blizzard conditions” and freezing drizzle.

On Monday and this morning, Albert Lea received about 4 inches of snow, keeping locals busy with shovels, snowblowers and snowplows.

Christmas Day in 2008 was white with snow cover, but moreover it was cold, with temperatures in Minnesota below zero. But it got warm through the day, with some areas getting close to the melting mark by midnight.

This year, Christmas will be white, too, but it looks like travel will be limited to reindeer and sleighs.

About Tim Engstrom

Tim Engstrom is the editor of the Albert Lea Tribune. He resides in Albert Lea with his wife, two sons and dog.

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