A winter storm over the weekend has raised significant concerns regarding MN road conditions, particularly in southern Minnesota. The storm dumped more than a foot of snow in some areas, leading to travel difficulties and hazardous conditions for motorists. As of Monday morning, many roads remain partially or completely covered in snow, prompting officials to advise caution while driving.
According to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), the no travel advisory was lifted at 1 p.m. on all state highways and Interstate 90 in south-central Minnesota. However, while most roads have reopened, travel is still not advised for certain portions of southern Minnesota due to lingering snow and icy conditions. As of 9:30 a.m. on Monday, some roads in south-central Minnesota remain closed.
What the data shows
The snowfall totals from the storm varied significantly across the region, with Kellogg receiving the highest accumulation at 25 inches. Other notable totals include 20 inches in Zumbro Falls, 17 inches in Lake City, and 16 inches in Pine Island. In the Twin Cities metro area, roads have improved, with most highway surfaces now listed as ‘normal,’ although motorists should remain vigilant for slippery spots, especially on ramps and bridges.
From March 13 through March 15, the storm resulted in a total of 464 property damage crashes, 40 injury crashes, and one fatal crash. Additionally, there were 46 spin outs, 651 vehicles reported off the road, and 19 jackknifed semi-trucks. These figures highlight the severe impact of the winter weather on road safety and travel.
Motorists are advised to continue using caution as many roads in southern Minnesota are still affected by the storm. Minnesota State Patrol Lt. Mike Lee emphasized the importance of paying attention to road conditions, as high winds have also caused white-out conditions and drifting in some areas, further complicating travel.
At Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, there were some delays reported on Monday morning, but overall operations were returning to normal as passengers were rebooked on flights that were canceled due to the storm. The airport is managing the situation as travelers adapt to the changing conditions.
As road conditions continue to improve across the state, officials are monitoring the situation closely. While many highways in the Twin Cities metro area are clear from snow, the potential for slick spots remains a concern. Motorists are reminded to stay informed about current road conditions and to drive safely as they navigate the aftermath of the winter storm.
