Weather

Twin Cities Breaks Record For Dec. 21 Snowfall: MN Weather

Wednesday's snowfall broke the previous record for Dec. 21, which was at 5.3 inches back in 1920.​

A man scrapes snow off his car windshield Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022, in Minneapolis.
A man scrapes snow off his car windshield Wednesday, Dec. 21, 2022, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr)

TWIN CITIES, MN — The Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area broke a snowfall record on Wednesday, according to the National Weather Service.

A total of 7.4 inches of snow fell at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport on Dec. 21. That amount breaks the previous record for Dec. 21 snowfall, which was 5.3 inches in 1920.

Total snowfall for Wednesday:

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

  • NWS Chanhassen Office: 5.4 inches
  • MSP Airport: 7.4 inches
  • Eau Claire (as of 10 p.m.): 1.2 inches.

The NWS is cautioning residents not to drive or travel Thursday unless it is an emergency.

A ground blizzard is expected to develop as strong winds and cold air whip up the snow.

Find out what's happening in Southwest Minneapolisfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

If you must drive, these five items are a must for your car:

  • Booster cables
  • Sand or cat litter, to create wheel traction
  • Shovel
  • Tow cables or chain
  • Sleeping bag and/or blankets

If you can, fit these items in your vehicle as well:

  • Candles and matches
  • Flashlight, extra batteries
  • Snowmobile suit, snow boots
  • Road flares or reflectors
  • Non-perishable food

Check out winter driving tips here.

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