Winter Storm — Isanti, Minnesota

2022-12-21 to 2022-12-22 · Isanti, Minnesota

Event narrative

There were multiple reports of 6 to 8 inches across the county within a 12 hour period. This verifies the winter storm warning.

Wider weather episode

Several inches of snow followed by rapid intensification of a low-pressure system over the Great Lakes led to a multi-day winter storm for much of Minnesota. Part 1 of this system was widespread fluffy snow with high snow-to-liquid ratios from southwest through east central Minnesota. There was a break, and then part 2 of this system followed as strong arctic winds developed in wrap-around circulation of the low-pressure system. Wind gusts of 35-50 mph, with the highest speeds in western and southern Minnesota. These winds together with the arctic air and fresh snow led to dangerous wind-chills near -25 to -35F and blizzard conditions across the open terrain of the Minnesota River Valley. Roads became impassable, and the National Guard was called upon to help rescue folks. Farther north and east it was more wooded, so blizzard conditions didn't develop. Roads were still slick, along with dangerous wind chills.

The highest amounts of observed snowfall appeared to surround eastern MN and western WI. More specifically the Andover and Ham Lake (Andover) in 10.8 inches. Northern Dakota County 8-9 inches near Lakeville and Rosemont. Farther west, Scott County observed 7 to 9 inches in the southeastern part of the county between New Prague and Lakeville.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 1064156. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.