Snowstorm looms over Minnesota as spring break travel is set to peak

• A shifting forecast means there's still a chance a narrow swath of the region could see up to 7 inches.

Why it matters: A snowstorm will add to the usual travel hassles on the days Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport projects to be their busiest of the spring.

By the numbers: MSP Airport expects spring break passenger travel to peak on Thursday and Friday with 48,000 passengers moving through security both days, according to airport spokesperson Jeff Lea.

What they're saying: "Just like any other storm," Lea told Axios, "MSP will have crews ready to respond to manage and remove snow."

Yes, but: "A more significant storm" is due to slam the region starting Sunday, NWS says, carrying the potential for even bigger traffic and travel snarls.

• MSP expects 45,000 departing passengers on Sunday, but Lea noted, "it's too early to say" how the weekend storm might affect the airport.

Threat level: The second weather system could last into early next week, with a safe bet for at least half a foot of snow.

• There's still an outside chance of a foot of snow by Monday, NWS says, but a lot in that forecast could still change.

Reality check: "Travelers should plan ahead for their spring break flights," airport officials said in a statement.

• MSP allows travelers to pre-book parking spots, and Terminal 2 passengers can reserve a spot in the security line.
• If someone's hardy enough to fly into Minnesota for spring break, remember to wait for them in the airport's cell phone lots and keep the curbside pickup areas clear.

Context: Early spring snow isn't unusual here. In the last 30 winters, the Twin Cities has averaged 8.8 inches of snow in March.