In northwestern Minnesota, a winter weather advisory has been issued, effective from 6 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Saturday. Residents in this region can expect wintry conditions with snow and wind becoming more significant.

The day will start off relatively mild, especially in southern Minnesota, where temperatures will reach the 50s. However, a clipper system is approaching, bringing colder air, rain, and snow showers later in the day. The wintry precipitation will gradually spread statewide, impacting most areas into Saturday.

As the transition from mild to wintry weather takes place, temperatures will drop significantly. While southern parts of the state can still enjoy the warmth, with highs in the 50s, the northwest will experience cooler temperatures, with highs in the 30s.

In addition to the drop in temperatures, strong winds are already starting to pick up and will remain blustery throughout Friday. By Saturday, winds will intensify further, blowing from the northwest at speeds of 15-30 mph, accompanied by gusts up to 40 mph.

The arrival of colder air will coincide with the development of snow showers, beginning late Friday in northwestern Minnesota and spreading across the state by Friday night and into Saturday. Most areas of Minnesota can expect snowfall, with northwestern regions seeing more significant amounts, ranging from 2 to even 5 inches in some spots. Eastern and southern Minnesota, on the other hand, will likely see a coating to 1 inch of new snow.

Given the anticipated weather conditions, the winter weather advisory is particularly relevant for northwestern Minnesota, where snow and wind will have a more significant impact. Residents in this area are advised to exercise caution and prepare for potentially hazardous travel conditions.

Following the wintry weekend, temperatures will continue to drop on Sunday, with highs ranging from the low 30s in the south to the 20s in the north. However, the snow and cold temperatures will not last long, as a return to warmer weather is expected next week. By Thursday, highs are projected to climb back into the 40s, and the snow is likely to melt away in southern Minnesota.

As the weather continues to fluctuate, it is important for residents to stay informed by regularly checking the latest forecasts and advisories.