I-90 Closed in SW Minnesota as Travel Conditions Worsen

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Rochester, MN (KROC--AM News) - Travel conditions in southeastern Minnesota deteriorated through the afternoon and are expected to worsen tonight.

As of 5 PM, nearly every major highway in the region was completely covered by snow, and blowing snow was reducing visibility. Still, travel conditions to the west or much worse. In the southwestern corner of Minnesota, I-90 is closed west of Worthington along with several state highways in that region and whiteout conditions are common.

The State Patrol says state troopers responded to 136 traffic crashes statewide between 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. there were 12 injury crashes reported, including a serious injury crash in Eagan. The State Patrol also responded to 60 reports of vehicles spending out or off roadways.

Winter storm and blizzard warnings still cover the southern two-thirds of Minnesota. The winter storm warning for southeastern Minnesota is currently set to expire at noon tomorrow. Blizzard warnings are posted for areas generally west of I-35 and the Twin Cities in the southern half of Minnesota.

The latest snowfall reports from the National Weather Service indicate the Rochester area is seen around 5-7 inches of accumulation and the latest forecast calls for another 5-9 inches of snow by tomorrow afternoon. Southeastern Minnesota is also being told to expect freezing rain and sleet mixed in with the snow overnight with wind gusts of between 35 and 40 mph.

Heavier snowfall totals are predicted northwest of the Rochester area. The Twin Cities could see another 10-13 inches of accumulation before the storm ends.

There have been numerous storm-related postponements and cancellations. Rochester School District is among the many that have canceled classes and other activities on Thursday. The Rochester City Council canceled its meetings today and City Hall will be closed for in person public services through tomorrow. The Rochester Public Library and Mayo Civic Center are also closed until Friday. Rochester Public Transit has already announced that service has been suspended on routes 217 and 314, and service on all other neighborhood roads will be delayed until 6 AM.

Go to KROCNEWS.com for a full list of storm cancellations and postponements.