Early winter storm approaches

Here it comes - winter may arrive with snowfall rates reaching one inch per hour with an early season storm this week.

The National Weather Service in Duluth issued a winter weather advisory from 6 p.m. today to 6 a.m. Wednesday for a storm expected to arrive in the northland late Monday into Tuesday. The winter weather advisory means periods of snow are expected to cause travel difficulties, snow-covered roads and limited visibility. Motorists should use caution when driving.

"An early winter storm will bring the most snow so far this season to many locations early this week," the weather service reported. "Snowfall will begin from south to north late Monday afternoon into Monday evening."

The chance for snow Monday night is 90 percent with an 80 percent chance on Tuesday.

Northwest Wisconsin may be dealing with sleet mixing with snow. Here in the lakes area, the most intense snowfall is expected along and south of Highway 2 late Monday night into Tuesday morning with snowfall rates possibly approaching 1 inch per hour at times, which will make travel difficult. Snowfall rates taper off Tuesday afternoon with snow ending from west to east Tuesday night."

The weather advisory includes all of northwest Wisconsin and much of northeast Minnesota, including the Brainerd lakes region, Interstate 35 corridor and the Twin Ports and North Shore.

The weather service reports 3 to 6 inches are possible for snow accumulation with the potential for locally higher amounts.

During the snowstorm, expect visibility to be a half-mile or less tonight into Tuesday morning. Snow is expected to quickly accumulate on untreated roadways, the weather service reported, making for slippery roads Tuesday morning.

Temperatures are expected to be mild in the low- to mid-30s for highs. The sun should return Wednesday with a high of 34 degrees and it may be even warmer Thursday with sunny skies and a high of 36 degrees. By Friday, the highs may be pushing toward 40 degrees with more sun throughout the weekend. Overnight lows may be in the upper teens to mid-20s.

There is time to make final preparations before the snow arrives today. The weather service reported the snow is likely, mainly after 3 p.m. and less than a half-inch may arrive during the day. Two to 4 inches of snow may accumulate overnight into Tuesday.

It always seems to be an adjustment to relearn the need to allow for stopping distances with each winter's first real snowfall. Northland residents have time today to set out the shovel, find the winter boots and clothing and plan for the weather.

Tips from the state of Minnesota and the Crow Wing County Emergency Management office.

• A snowstorm is a reminder to make sure vehicles are ready with batteries, wipers and wiper fluid, antifreeze, lights, heater, hazard lights, defroster, oil level and brakes, and tire pressure all in good working order.

• Before driving check with the Minnesota Department of Transporation traffic center at www.511mn.org for the latest road conditions.

• Assemble an emergency kit for the car.

• Essential items to include in the car kits are paper road maps even if there is access to GPS. Other items to include: cell phone and charger, shovel, windshield scraper, tow rope, booster cables, whistle, reflector or brightly colored cloth to use as a distress signal, a bag of sand/salt or cat litter to put under tires if stuck in snow or ice.

• For long trips, tell someone about the trip and routes intended to travel and expected return time.

• Stay on designated roads or detours. Avoid short cuts off main highways as they may not be patrolled or plowed.

• Fill the gas tank and stop frequently while traveling to refuel.

• If a vehicle starts to slide while braking, ease off the gas pedal and steer into the skid until traction is regained, straighten out the vehicle and, if the vehicle has anti-lock brakes, apply steady pressure.

• Drive with headlights on during snow or fog. Use fog lights if necessary. Drive at a speed that is in accordance with the limits of vision. Adjust speed for conditions without becoming an impediment to traffic flow. If it's too difficult, pull off the road and stop and use the hazard lights.

• Watch for slick spots, especially on overpasses and bridges. Be prepared to react.

• Never try to pass in blowing snow as vehicles ahead may not be visible. Never drive into a snow cloud as it may mean a snowplow is ahead clearing the lane or preparing to turn around.

• After a minor traffic crash, if it isn't safe to exit the vehicle motion to the other driver to go to the nearest safe place to stop.

• Be prepared to turn back if conditions are threatening. Or carry a bag to stop at a hotel or a friend's house and spend the night.

• If a vehicle breaks down, get as far off the road as possible and turn on emergency flashers. The greatest threat is being hit by passing cars. Stay in the vehicle. Walking in a snowstorm can be disorienting. Keep the cellphone on as most modern phones have locating signals that can help rescuers find the location.

• Put on extra layers and take it easy. Shoveling snow and cold, pushing stuck vehicles - all can put an extra strain on the heart and increase the risk of heart attack. Rest frequently to avoid overexertion. Individuals should seek help if they feel chest pain.

• Drink plenty of water.

• Stay inside if possible during the snow event.

• Wear a hat and dress right, in layers and in waterproof coats and boots. Avoid cotton clothing or socks that can soak up water and offer little warmth. Wear mittens to keep hands warmer as fingers share heat.

• Provide a shelter for animals.