Will it be snow, rain or sleet?

Published 9:52 am Monday, November 10, 2014

Or perhaps all of the above?

After receiving forecasts over the weekend calling for a half of foot of snow today and tonight, southern Minnesotans most likely are skeptical of what first major winter storm of the season actually will bring.

The latest National Weather Service forecast said snowfall amounts for southern Minnesota have been reduced. It calls for a mix of rain, snow and sleet midday today, turning to rain after 2 p.m., then rain, snow and sleet again tonight as the sun sets. Some forecast websites said Albert Lea can expect ice pellets.

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The weather services said the chance of precipitation is 50 percent, which means the storm could stay to the north.

That’s where some school districts are canceling classes.

St. Cloud Area Schools, Albany, Sauk Rapids-Rice and Sartell are among those closed today because of the storm that could deposit more than a foot of snow in some areas up north.

The state Department of Transportation’s website this morning showed roads in west-central Minnesota were completely covered with snow. Some commuters were expected to get an early start to deal with the falling snow. The National Weather Service said the highest accumulations in Minnesota will be in the eastern part of the state, including the Twin Cities metro area, where total accumulations of 10 to 16 inches are possible.

Winter storm warnings have been posted from northern South Dakota, across central Minnesota and into northern Wisconsin through Tuesday evening.

High temperatures for Albert Lea are expected to stay below freezing all week.

— The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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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