Difficult driving conditions to persist in south central Minnesota

High winds and icy conditions may continue into the morning

MANKATO, Minn. –  (3:30 p.m.) Motorists in south central Minnesota are advised to expect difficult driving conditions to remain into Tuesday (December 31) with forecasted additional snowfall, dropping temps and even higher wind gusts.

Snowplow drivers started the storm with warmer, wet roads and as sleet and snow came with dropping temps, traffic compacted the precipitation leaving roads glazed and icy.  Progress can be made in the sheltered areas with chemicals, but applying salt in the open rural areas while snow is blowing across results in the snow sticking to the road. 

Conditions have varied throughout the day, but the consistent message now is refreeze from the winds and temps resulting in icy driving conditions. 

Snowplows will resume in the early hours on Tuesday and motorists should check road conditions before traveling. For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store

MnDOT snowplow operators will do their part to make highways safe and motorists should remember to:

  • Stay alert for snowplows, which turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. They also may travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.
  • Stay back at least 10 car lengths behind the plow. Don’t drive into a snow cloud.
  • Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions.
  • Turn on your headlights and wear your seat belt.
  • Turn off the cruise control.
  • Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
  • Don’t drive distracted.
  • Check MnDOT’s road conditions map at www.511mn.org

For additional tips on safe winter driving, go to mndot.gov/workzone/winter.html.

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