Update:

The northbound lanes of Interstate 35 near Owatonna were closed about three hours Thursday morning because of multiple crashes.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, troopers responded at 9:20 a.m. to a vehicle in the center median of I-35 near milepost 41, one mile north of U.S. Highway 14.

While the trooper was helping the motorist, a second vehicle went into the center median behind him.

In total, the State Patrol stated there were 20 passenger cars and six jackknifed semis in separate crashes, leading to the interstate closure. Northbound motorists were detoured westbound to Steele County Road 7 and Steele County Road 2 eastbound to I-35.

No serious injuries were reported.

The interstate reopened at 12:35 p.m.

All crashes are under investigation.

Original story:

Northbound Interstate 35 motorists are being detoured at Owatonna because of multiple crashes, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Motorists will experience delays. Northbound traffic is being detoured at U.S. Highway 14 westbound to Steele County Road 7 northbound and Steele County Road 2 eastbound to I-35. Motorists should be alert to traffic slowdowns. Southbound I-35 remains open.

MnDOT will announce the reopening of I-35 northbound once the vehicles are removed and the roadway is cleared and deemed safe for travel.

For updated road condition information, call 511 or visit www.511mn.org.