Mon Feb 23 12:00:00 UTC 2026: ### Minnesota Battered by Winter Storm, Disrupting Travel and Raising Fire Weather Concerns
The Story:
A powerful winter storm swept across the Upper Midwest on February 18, 2026, bringing a mix of hazardous weather conditions. In Minnesota, heavy snow and strong winds created treacherous travel conditions, particularly in the southwest and south-central regions, extending as far east as the southern Twin Cities metro and western Wisconsin. The North Shore and Arrowhead regions of Minnesota experienced blizzard conditions, leading to the closure of a significant portion of Highway 61. Simultaneously, areas to the south, including Iowa and Illinois, faced elevated fire weather conditions due to dry and windy weather.
The storm deposited significant snowfall across southern Minnesota and central Wisconsin, with accumulations generally ranging from 6 to 9 inches, and some areas reporting over a foot. The combination of heavy snow and wind significantly impacted travel and daily life in the affected regions.
Key Points:
- The winter storm occurred on February 18, 2026.
- Heavy snow and strong winds impacted southwest and south-central Minnesota, the southern Twin Cities metro, and western Wisconsin.
- The North Shore and Arrowhead regions of Minnesota experienced blizzard conditions and Highway 61 closures.
- Elevated fire weather conditions were present in Iowa and Illinois.
- Snowfall amounts ranged from 6 to 9 inches in many areas, with some reports exceeding a foot.
Key Takeaways:
- The Upper Midwest experienced a diverse range of weather impacts from a single, strong low-pressure system.
- Winter storms can create significant travel disruptions and pose safety risks.
- Even within a single weather system, conditions can vary dramatically, leading to both blizzard conditions and fire weather concerns in relatively close proximity.
- The National Weather Service issued warnings and provided forecasts to help mitigate the impact of the storm.
First Piper 