Rochester, MN – A significant winter storm is set to impact southeastern Minnesota and northern Iowa on Wednesday, bringing heavy snow, strong winds, and dangerous travel conditions.
According to the National Weather Service in La Crosse, a Blizzard Warning will be in effect from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. CDT Wednesday. The storm is expected to deliver between 4 and 9 inches of snow, with some areas experiencing a light glaze of ice. Winds will gust between 35 and 55 mph, creating whiteout conditions and making travel extremely hazardous.
The affected areas include Rochester, Dodge Center, Austin, Wabasha, and Preston in Minnesota, as well as Osage, Iowa. Commuters should prepare for widespread blowing snow, significantly reduced visibility, and potential delays throughout the day.
Officials urge residents to limit travel to emergencies only. Those who must drive should carry a winter survival kit and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. Downed trees and power outages may also be possible due to the high winds.
For the latest road conditions, travelers can visit 511ia.org for Iowa updates and 511mn.org for Minnesota updates. Authorities advise staying indoors and monitoring local weather updates as the storm progresses.
