Be prepared for the approaching winter storm

​MSP Airport and all employees are in the path of a potentially dangerous winter storm with extreme weather conditions to follow.

Based on the latest information from the National Weather Service (NWS), please do what you can now to prepare yourself and airport staff for winter storm conditions, which will include excessive snowfall, blizzard conditions and extremely dangerous cold over the next few days.

There will be impacts to our employees and people trying to travel during the winter storm event. In addition to preparing for the workplace impacts this week, please be aware of the potential impacts to you and your loved ones as you travel over the upcoming holidays.

Here is what the NWS is predicting as of 5 p.m. Tuesday:

➔ Winter Storm Warnings for 5 to 8 inches of snow Wednesday morning through Thursday morning

➔ Wind Chill Watch/Warning for wind chills below -35 degrees F Thursday through Friday night.

➔ Blizzard conditions developing late Thursday into Friday night as winds increase to 45 to 50+ mph

➔ Frigid wind chills between -25° to -40 degrees F or colder are expected Thursday through Friday night

Travel conditions could become life threatening Thursday through Friday night due to the combination of extreme cold and blizzard conditions. The risk for motorists is especially high, with blowing snow and blizzard conditions making rescue efforts extremely difficult. Becoming stranded from Thursday through Saturday will have life-threatening implications for motorists and anyone involved in rescue or recovery operations.

What can you do to prepare in case travel during the storm is necessary? Ensure that someone knows when you are leaving, when you expect to arrive, and which route you plan to take.

Make sure to pack an emergency supply kit for your vehicle before venturing out. And please consider staying off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.

For additional information, please review this document from the NWS. And if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via email or cell (952-201-1445).

Be safe and Happy Holidays.

Kristi Rollwagen
Manager, Emergency Programs, Metropolitan Airports Commission