UPDATE: NWS Duluth Issues Weekend Winter Storm Watch

Spring may be officially on our calendars for March 20, but everyone in the Northland is well aware of the fact that warmer temperatures in March often leads to more snow.

This weekend, a messy winter storm is headed for the area that will not only likely bring snow but, even worse, the dreaded "wintry mix" is also in play, including the possibility of significant ice accumulations for parts of the region. Driving in snow is manageable, ice is whole different story.

Late Thursday afternoon, the NWS released a graphic predicting how this storm would impact parts of the Northland. They released the information through the US National Weather Service Duluth Minnesota Facebook page:

Here's a look at the precipitation timing and intensity of the upcoming wintry system that will bring hazardous travel conditions Saturday and Saturday night. The heaviest wintry mix is expected Saturday evening and Saturday night. During this time, accumulating snow is expected on top of already icy roads, which could lead to some very dangerous travel conditions.

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NWS Duluth Facebook

As you look at the graphic above, the Twin Ports area is the top row of colors, followed then by Iron Range/International Border, then Brainerd Lakes, Hayward and WI South Shore.

This looks like a messy situation, especially if you have travel plans this weekend, so please take necessary precautions and double check the weather conditions throughout your travel area.

UPDATE: On Friday, March 4, the National Weather Service officially issued a Winter Storm Watch, stating that it looking like we'd see more ice and less snow that what had been previously predicted. They also shared a new graphic showing just how much of each to expect.

NWS Duluth Facebook

They added that this storm could make travel extremely difficult and cause power outages due to the wet, heavy snow.

Of course, staying home is the safest choice, but if you must travel you should let the people at your destination know exactly when you leave and the route you plan on taking. Also, make sure that your cell phone is fully charged and you're prepared just in case you get stuck somewhere along the way.