Update: MnDOT advises motorists to avoid driving as blizzard approaches

Published 10:12 am Saturday, February 23, 2019

The Minnesota Department of Transportation is advising motorists to consider changing their traveling plans Saturday night and into Sunday as driving conditions on state highways are likely to deteriorate overnight.

A blizzard warning is in effect Saturday evening through Sunday evening for south-central Minnesota, including Albert Lea, according to the National Weather Service.

The Weather Service states the combination of heavy snow and wind gusts to 50 mph could make it deadly if precautions aren’t taken.

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Within the blizzard warning, snow accumulations will range from 1 to 3 inches in the west near the South Dakota border to 6 to 8 inches along Interstate 35 and east.

If people have to travel, they are advised to take a winter survival kit with them. If motorists get stranded, they should stay with their vehicle.

MnDOT stated snowplow operators will be on the roads, but snowfall rates, at times, will outpace the work of the plows.

High winds, especially in unsheltered areas, will result in whiteout conditions and have the potential for heavy drifting.

To view road conditions, visit the MnDOT website here.