A fast-moving area of low pressure may bring snow and freezing drizzle to northern Minnesota in what the National Weather Service is describing as a quick burst of precipitation.
So far the Brainerd lakes area has missed the major snowmakers with storms delivering snow to the north or south as storm tracks have moved through. But a new storm system is providing another opportunity for significant snowfall beginning Thursday, Feb. 22.
A winter weather advisory is in effect for central Minnesota from 3 p.m. Thursday to noon Friday. Expectations are for mixed precipitation-meaning snow and ice. Total snow accumulations for the region could range from 3-7 inches along with the potential for a light ice glaze.
"A band of heavy snow will likely develop during the pre-dawn hours of Friday morning and lift northward through northeast Minnesota and northwest Wisconsin, resulting in snow rates around 1 inch per hour," the National Weather Service in Duluth stated in an advisory.
"Relatively warm temperatures aloft raise the potential of freezing drizzle mixing with the snow from the pre-dawn hours of Friday morning into the early afternoon with light icing possible. The Friday morning commute will be slow due to snow and ice accumulation. The system quickly moves out of the Northland from late Friday morning through the early afternoon hours."
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Once the snow moves out, the forecast for Friday afternoon calls for partly sunny skies and mild temperatures nearing 30 degrees. There is a chance for snow again Saturday, mainly before noon and again Saturday night. Should the snow fall here, there will be a string of days with sunshine and mild temperatures to enjoy it as highs near 30 are forecast through Wednesday.
For those sticking to the shovels for snow removal instead of the snowblower, a few precautions can ease making it a painful activity.
"Shoveling can potentially lead to a back injury if you don't use proper body mechanics," said Essentia Health Physical Therapist Brett Morlock, in a news release. "You have heavy snow, often a short shovel, and bending over many times, creating the perfect condition for back pain."
An injury is less likely with a stronger back.
"I'm not saying you need to have a six-pack," Morlock stated. "But maybe doing a few stretches and going for a short walk occasionally could be really beneficial."
As spring draws closer, the chance for heavier, wet snowfall looms. In that case, it may be worth it to create a gift basket for the neighbor with a snowblower.
