Travel Impossible in Parts of Western Minnesota

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Blizzard conditions are making travel impossible in parts of western Minnesota today. Over a dozen state highways have been closed and there is a large area west of the Twin Cities where no travel is advised.

The most recent snowfall reports show around 10 inches of snow has fallen along the Minnesota-South Dakota border and close to a foot and a half of snow has been reported in eastern South Dakota. The National Weather Service is predicting those same areas could see an addition 8 to 18-inches of snow through tomorrow. The same area is seeing wind gusts of around 50 miles per hour, which is creating snow drifts and knocking visibility to near zero at times in open areas.

The storm system has also dumped considerable snow on sections of the Twin Cities and south-central Minnesota. The National Weather Service is reporting around 10-inches of accumulation in Lakeville, while the latest reports show Faribault has seen about 8 inches of new snow.

The most recent snowfall reports in the Rochester area put the accumulation of snow and sleet in the 4 to 6-inch range. Most highways in southeastern Minnesota are still described as completely covered by snow and ice, which continues to contribute to numerous traffic crashes and vehicle spinouts.

News update: Thousands Without Power Across Southern Minnesota