MINNEAPOLIS — At least two major highways are closed, and the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) is recommending that no one hit the roads in the west central part of the state due to dangerous winter conditions.
A no travel advisory issued early Friday covers both state and federal highways in Becker, Clay, Douglas, Grant, Mahnomen, Otter Tail and Wilkin counties. Minnesota 511 says a number of roads have been closed, including heavily-used routes like I-94 between Moorhead and Osakis, and Highway 10 from Moorhead to Wadena.
MnDOT said in a press release that the plows are out in those areas, but snow and gusting winds are creating whiteout conditions, making travel extremely hazardous. Some gusts have been measured up to 50 miles per hour.
State Patrol Sergeant Jesse Grabow posted a video on Twitter showing two semis off the road on I-94 between Barnesville and Rothsay, and a freeway that is almost not visible due to blowing snow.
He said earlier that troopers were encountering dozens of vehicles on that stretch that had either spun out or hit the ditch.
Motorists are reminded to give plows at least ten feet of space, to slow down and pay extra close attention to the roads.
More winter driving tips are available from MnDOT's website.
In the metro, roads ae wet and a few crashes dotted the early morning traffic map. But drivers will need to be aware and take it easy as temperatures drop throughout the day, causing wet roads to freeze and turn icy.
Several Minnesota schools districts have also canceled or delayed the start of classes on Friday, you can find that list here.
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