Coon Rapids Mobilizes Full Snow Response After Overnight Clipper Dumps More Than Seven Inches

COON RAPIDS, Minn. – A fast moving Alberta Clipper delivered one of the most significant early winter snowfalls of the season to Coon Rapids and the broader Anoka County area, prompting a full municipal plow operation before dawn Wednesday and triggering widespread school schedule changes across the region.

The storm swept into Minnesota on Tuesday, December 9, intensifying during the evening commute and continuing into the early hours of Wednesday, December 10. Forecasters had warned that the system’s fast pace and sharp transition bands would create hazardous travel both Tuesday night and Wednesday morning, a prediction that proved accurate as the storm left the northern Twin Cities suburbs with some of the highest snow totals in the metro.

Heavy Snowfall and Storm Progression

Near Coon Rapids, snowfall reports reached approximately 7 to 7.2 inches, placing the city above the totals recorded in many central and southern metro communities. The National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory for Anoka County, with parts of the region approaching Winter Storm Warning criteria due to higher localized accumulations. Most of the snow fell during a concentrated burst Tuesday evening, followed by lighter but persistent snowfall overnight.

By Wednesday morning, forecasters cautioned that colder air would move in behind the system, with daytime highs expected to fall into the teens by Thursday. Officials noted that this temperature drop would reinforce slippery pavement conditions even after plows began clearing streets.

Full City Plow Began at 3 a.m.

In accordance with city policy, which requires a full plow when snowfall reaches at least three inches, the City of Coon Rapids initiated a citywide plow operation at 3 a.m. on Wednesday. A full plow includes clearing every city maintained street from curb to curb, a process that can take several hours and often requires multiple passes in neighborhoods and cul de sacs.

Crews prioritized major routes, hills, and high volume intersections before shifting into residential areas. Once roadways are completed, the city will move to clearing sidewalks and trails with a goal of completing pedestrian routes within 48 hours.

Winter parking restrictions were also in effect. No on street parking is allowed between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m., and vehicles must remain off streets whenever snowfall reaches three inches or more until full plowing is complete. City officials reminded residents that violations can result in ticketing or towing and emphasized the need to keep trash carts, trailers, and other obstacles out of the roadway to ensure plows can reach the curb.

School Districts Shift to Delays and Closures

The storm created widespread disruptions to school schedules across the northern metro. With heavy overnight snow and icy roads persisting into the morning commute, districts announced late starts, e learning days, or full cancellations for Wednesday, December 10.

The Anoka Hennepin School District, which serves Coon Rapids, made schedule adjustments in line with many districts across the Twin Cities. Neighboring districts reported similar decisions, with several opting for two hour delays and others choosing to cancel classes entirely due to hazardous bus conditions. Traffic agencies issued Next Drive Alerts throughout the morning as snow covered and icy conditions slowed travel across the metro.

Looking Ahead

As cleanup continues, city officials urge residents to plan extra travel time, give plow crews plenty of room to work, and monitor ongoing weather conditions. With colder temperatures settling in and the potential for additional light snow in the days ahead, slick conditions may persist even on treated and plowed surfaces.

The early winter system served as a reminder of the speed and intensity with which Alberta Clippers can impact Minnesota communities and highlighted the importance of coordinated citywide and regional responses to maintain safety and mobility during winter weather events.

MinneapoliMedia