Blizzard Warning Issued for Southern and Western Minnesota Through Monday Morning

Alert Details

The National Weather Service in Twin Cities/Chanhassen MN has issued a Blizzard Warning for southern and western Minnesota. The alert is in response to very heavy snow and significantly increasing winds that are expected to create widespread blowing snow and blizzard conditions.

Affected Areas

The warning covers the following Minnesota counties:

• Lac Qui Parle
• Chippewa
• Kandiyohi
• Meeker
• Yellow Medicine
• Renville
• McLeod
• Sibley
• Redwood
• Brown
• Nicollet
• Watonwan
• Blue Earth
• Waseca

What You Should Do

Travel should be restricted to emergencies only. If you must travel, ensure you have a winter survival kit with you. If you become stranded, stay with your vehicle. Residents are advised to prepare for potential road closures and shelter in place as conditions worsen. For the latest road conditions, call 5 1 1 or visit 511mn.org. Remember that if interstate highways are closed, state and county roads are also likely impassable.

Expected Conditions

• Snow Accumulation: Additional snow accumulations between 5 and 10 inches are expected. Snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour are possible through mid-morning.
• Wind: Northwest winds will increase to 30 to 40 mph, with gusts reaching as high as 60 mph, particularly across the Minnesota River Valley.
• Visibility: The combination of falling and blowing snow will create whiteout conditions, making travel treacherous and potentially life-threatening.
• Impacts: Widespread blowing snow will significantly reduce visibility. Strong winds may cause extensive damage to trees and power lines. The hazardous conditions are expected to impact the Monday morning commute.

Timeline

The Blizzard Warning is effective immediately and remains in effect until 7:00 AM CDT Monday, March 16. While snow may taper off from northwest to southeast this afternoon and evening, blizzard conditions are expected to persist into tonight.