Winter Storm Warnings in Minneapolis, Minnesota
Minneapolis sits deep in the Upper Midwest, where Arctic air masses and moisture from the Great Plains can combine to produce serious winter weather. Across the 13 years analyzed from 2012 through 2024, the city averaged 38.1 inches (96.8 cm) of snowfall per year — a substantial seasonal load that residents take seriously but largely manage with practiced efficiency.
Snow falls throughout the winter, but February, December, and January tend to be the heaviest months. Average winter overnight lows hover around 10.3°F (−12.1°C), meaning snow that falls often stays, compacting into ice and creating hazards that linger well after a storm ends.
Truly intense single-day snowfall events are relatively uncommon here. Over the period studied, Minneapolis averaged fewer than one heavy-snow day per year, suggesting that while the cumulative seasonal total is impressive, the city is rarely hit by a single catastrophic dump.
A Winter Storm Warning issued for Minneapolis means the National Weather Service expects conditions dangerous enough to make travel difficult or impossible — typically involving significant snow, blowing and drifting, or ice. It is worth noting that warning thresholds differ across regions; the snowfall amounts that trigger a warning here may differ from those used in warmer or colder parts of the country. When a warning is posted, residents should limit unnecessary travel and prepare for potential power outages and extended cold.
| Years analyzed | 13 winters (2012–2024) |
|---|---|
| Avg. annual snowfall | 38.1 in (96.8 cm) |
| Snowiest months | February, December, January |
| Avg. winter overnight low | 10.3°F (−12.1°C) |
| Heavy-snow days per year | 0.2 |
Climatology figures are approximate estimates for the period shown and may differ from official local records.
Watch vs warning: a winter storm watch means a major storm is possible in Minneapolis within 12–48 hours (be prepared); a winter storm warning means it is happening or about to (take action now). For full definitions, see the complete winter storm warning guide.
Minneapolis winter storm FAQ
Is there a winter storm warning in Minneapolis right now?
The live status at the top of this page shows whether a winter storm warning, watch, or advisory is currently in effect for Minneapolis, Minnesota. It checks live forecast and alert data automatically and refreshes every time the page loads.
Does Minneapolis get winter storm warnings often?
Minneapolis sees significant snowfall in most winters, and winter storm warnings are issued in a typical season. The frequency varies year to year with the track of major storm systems.
How much snow triggers a winter storm warning in Minneapolis?
There is no single national trigger: warning criteria are set by each local National Weather Service office, ranging from a couple of inches of snow in areas where snow is rare up to 6 inches or more in snow-belt regions, and significant ice accumulation can warrant a warning on its own.
What should I do during a winter storm warning in Minneapolis?
Avoid travel if possible, stay indoors and keep warm, prepare for power outages, keep an emergency kit, and check on elderly or vulnerable neighbours. Follow guidance from Minnesota authorities and the National Weather Service (NWS).
Winter storm warnings in nearby locations
- Winter storm warning in Saint Paul, MN
- Winter storm warning in Rochester, MN
- Winter storm warning in Eau Claire, WI
- Winter storm warning in Duluth, MN
- Winter storm warning in La Crosse, WI
- Winter storm warning in Cedar Rapids, IA
See all locations, read the latest winter weather news, or the full winter storm warning guide. Definitions follow the National Weather Service (NWS) criteria; thresholds vary by region.