MINNEAPOLIS (FOX 9) – An overnight mix of freezing rain, snow and ice is expected to create a treacherous commute on Thursday morning.

Wednesday’s forecast in Minnesota

The forecast:

Wednesday starts fairly quiet across Minnesota, with increasing clouds through the day. Temperatures hover in the mid-40s, running slightly below average, with a light northeast breeze.

Most of the day stays dry, though a few isolated showers may sneak into western Minnesota by late afternoon. The better chance for precipitation arrives after sunset.

Timeline of snow, ice and rain in the Twin Cities

Timeline:

Conditions deteriorate late Wednesday into Thursday as a system moves in, bringing a mix of rain, snow and ice to Minnesota.

Here’s a timeline of what to expect in the Twin Cities metro area:

From 6 p.m. to midnight: Light rain arrives in the metro with a mix of snow and sleet. Temperatures hold in the upper 30s.
Midnight to 6 a.m. Thursday: Sleet and freezing rain are expected, with temperatures dropping into the low 30s and gusty easterly winds. Travel could become difficult at times due to icy and slushy road conditions.
From 6 a.m. to Thursday afternoon: Road conditions gradually improve after the lunch hours. Temperatures remain in the mid-30s, and precipitation transitions toward mainly rain.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for much of Minnesota from midnight into Thursday. A winter storm warning is in effect near the Twin Cities metro and along the Arrowhead region through noon Thursday due to the potential for heavier mixed precipitation and hazardous travel.

Extended Minnesota weather forecast

What’s next:

Following Thursday’s wintry mix, another system follows quickly behind, bringing additional chances for rain and possibly snow from Friday into Saturday.

Sunday looks colder but quieter, with sunshine returning. Temperatures stay just below average heading into early next week.

Here’s a look at the seven-day forecast: