Update: Predicted Snowfall Totals Change in New Minnesota Blizzard Forecast

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Rochester area is now included in a blizzard warning issued by the National Weather Service in anticipation of a very powerful late winter storm.

An approaching low pressure center is predicted to create a narrow band of heavy, wet snow that will be accompanied by very strong winds through much of the day on Wednesday. According to the latest forecast models, that narrow band is expected to impact a large area in southeastern Minnesota.

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The blizzard warning will be in effect from 7 AM through 7 PM on Wednesday. Olmsted, Goodhue, Fillmore, Mower, and Dodge Counties are included in the warning. The list also includes Freeborn, Steele, Waseca Counties, along with several other counties along the Iowa-Minnesota border in south-central Minnesota.

National Weather Service

The blizzard warning indicates the storm is predicted to produce snowfall totals in excess of 8 inches and north winds gusting to 35 to 55 mph that could result in near whiteout conditions during the predicted periods of heavy snow. The storm could also include sleet and freezing rain when the precipitation transitions from liquid to frozen and that could result in a light icy glaze in some areas.

National Weather Service

The latest National Weather Service forecast for snowfall amounts indicates the Rochester area could see between 6-12 inches of snow from the storm. Any movement in the track of the storm to the north or south could significantly impact the snow accumulation totals, as would a quicker or delayed drop in temperatures during the day on Wednesday.

Be Sure to Regularly Check KROCNEWS.com For Updates and Closings

The City of Rochester, which recently suspended its seasonal parking ordinance that requires alternate side parking to facilitate snow removal, is urging citizens to practice alternate side parking on Wednesday and until the snow can be plowed from city streets.