Blizzard conditions expected to impact travel in South Central and Southwest Minnesota
MnDOT warns motorists of hazardous travel conditions
MANKATO, Minn. —The Minnesota Department of Transportation warns motorists in South Central and a portion of Southwest Minnesota that the forecasted blizzard with light snow and strong winds will significantly reduce visibility and make travel hazardous this afternoon and tonight.
According to the National Weather Service, much of South Central and Southwest Minnesota will be under a Blizzard Warning this afternoon and evening. Strong winds, light snowfall, slippery roads, and whiteout conditions are likely, especially in open areas. Motorists should have a full tank of gas and a winter survival kit if they must travel in these potentially life-threatening conditions.
Motorists are advised that the forecasted storm may result in road closures or No Travel Advisories later today as the blizzard moves into the region.
MnDOT advises motorists to check road conditions before traveling. The public can view winter road conditions on state highways from plow and traffic cameras available through the www.511mn.org website.
In South Central Minnesota there are 83 snowplows that work on state highways in the 13-county MnDOT District 7. In South Central Minnesota, MnDOT plows 3,275 lane miles, and an average route for drivers is 40 miles.
MnDOT snowplow operators will do their part to make highways safe, and motorists should remember to:
- Don’t stop in traffic lanes during low visibility; keep moving slowly or pull onto the shoulder if needed.
- Don’t drive distracted.
- Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions.
- Stay alert for snowplows, which travel slower, turn often or exit frequently. Snowplows may travel over centerlines or partially into traffic to clear roads and improve conditions.
- Stay back at least 10 car lengths behind the plow. Don’t drive into a snow cloud.
- Turn headlights on.
- Turn off cruise control.
- Wear your seat belt.
- Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
- Know before you go – check www.511mn.org or the 511mn app before you drive.
Sign up for Travel Alerts
Motorists can sign up for email or text travel alerts for state highways at mndot.gov/d7 by clicking “Email and text updates” under the “Connect with us” heading. Choose to receive messages via email or text message. Then, choose the “South Central MN” under the “Travel Alerts” category.
Important: Road conditions shown on 511mn.org only reflect state highway conditions. Please check with your county, city, and township for their road conditions and travel guidance.
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