Conditions improve in south-central Minnesota
NO TRAVEL in southwest Minnesota. National Weather Service (NWS) has extended Blizzard Warning until 6 p.m.
Southwest Minnesota motorists are advised of road closures on Interstate 90 and state highways in the area surrounding Windom, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT).
These road closures include:
+ I-90 from Worthington to Fairmont (may extend to Blue Earth).
+ Highway #4 from the Iowa border to north of St. James.
+ Highway #30 from Westbrook to Highway #4 at St. James.
+ Highway #60 from Worthington to St. James.
+ Highway #71 from the Iowa border to Highway #14.
+ Highway #86 from the Iowa border to Highway #60.
These counties are impacted – Cottonwood, Jackson, Martin, Nobles and Watonwan.
The closures will remain until further notice and additional closures may be necessary. Motorists are advised not to travel until conditions improve and MnDOT and the Minnesota State Patrol open the roads.
When the highways re-open, MnDOT will update www.511mn.org as each highway opens. Motorist should expect compacted snow and icy conditions from the blizzard.
South-central Minnesota (Mankato area) highways have been upgraded, but caution is advised as winds continue to gust reducing visibility and motorists can encounter icy spots from the blowing snow.
Motorists should plan accordingly. When a road is closed it is illegal to travel in that area. Motorists can be fined up to $1,000 and/or sentenced to 90 days in jail. In addition, if travelers need to be rescued from a closed road, other expenses and penalties will apply.
