Major storm to impact holiday travel

Forecasters are warning of a major storm that will impact the region from mid-week until Christmas. 

The storm is expected to bring heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous cold.  A winter storm watch is now in place ahead of the storm, which local forecasters say will arrive Wednesday and stay until early Saturday. 

The storm will have major impacts on holiday travel.  The National Weather Service predicts up to 9” of snow in the Mankato area Wednesday, with strong winds to follow on Thursday. Gusts up to 45 mph are possible.

Brutal cold moves in on Thursday as windchills drop to  -25 to -40 below for the remainder of the week. Strong winds and blustery conditions will continue into Christmas Eve on Saturday. Christmas Day is expected to be calm, cold, and sunny.