Why the Second Wave of This April Winter Storm Is the One to Worry About
A second winter storm is working its way from the High Plains into the Upper Midwest and Great Lakes regions, bringing with it up to two feet of snow, 65 mile per hour winds and ice accumulation.
The incoming storm threatens to create "treacherous" travel conditions, according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.
"The second in a set of Back-to-Back winter storms will begin tonight and then bring heavy snow and dangerous icing to the Northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and western Great Lakes. Treacherous travel is likely, with any icing compounding area impacts," the National Weather Service said.
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6 States Bracing for Snow, Ice, Strong Winds
Minnesota, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin and Wyoming are all expected to be hit with the second winter storm.
"Heavy snow will begin across the northern High Plains tonight and then expand across the Upper Midwest through Saturday morning," the National Weather Service's Prediction Center wrote.
"Snowfall rates in excess of one inch per hour are likely for much of the area, leading to widespread accumulations above eight inches and locally 12-18 inches. This intense snowfall combined with gusty winds will cause dangerous travel due to snow covered roads, some blowing and drifting and limited visibility."
The second in a set of Back-to-Back winter storms will begin tonight and then bring heavy snow and dangerous icing to the Northern Plains, Upper Midwest, and western Great Lakes. Treacherous travel is likely, with any icing compounding area impacts. pic.twitter.com/sLSiZdOvFD
— NWS Weather Prediction Center (@NWSWPC) April 2, 2026
Montana is expected to receive the heaviest snowfall with more than two feet on the highest peaks possible.
Why the Second Storm Is the One to Worry About
The second winter storm is expected to prolong the hazardous conditions hitting the regions, particularly in areas already affected by ice accumulation from the first storm.
Additional freezing rain is in the forecast from South Dakota into Wisconsin and northern Michigan, increasing the likelihood of further tree damage and power outages due to cumulative ice loading on infrastructure.
"Power outages and tree damage are likely due to the ice," the National Weather Service warned in Minnesota. "Travel could be nearly impossible. The hazardous conditions could impact the Friday evening commute."
The winter storm and advisory warnings across the Upper Midwest are expected to dissipate on Sunday.
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