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Minnesota Thanksgiving Travel: I-35, I-94 Ice Risks Explained
Minneapolis, MN – Minnesota drivers heading out for Thanksgiving travel on Interstate 94, Interstate 35 and Interstate 90 should know that even freshly salted highways can remain dangerously icy. When
By Cole Barrett · 2026-11-11T19:18:38.622Z
Minneapolis, MN – Minnesota drivers heading out for Thanksgiving travel on Interstate 94, Interstate 35 and Interstate 90 should know that even freshly salted highways can remain dangerously icy. When pavement temperatures plunge, traditional road salt loses much of its melting power, creating a hazard that can persist long after maintenance trucks have passed.
According to winter maintenance guidance from transportation agencies, conventional road salt becomes less effective as pavement temperatures approach 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Its ability to melt ice declines further in the teens and single digits, conditions Minnesota regularly experiences during winter.
Why Even Salted Minnesota Highways Can Freeze Road salt lowers water's freezing point, helping melt snow and ice. But it does not guarantee clear pavement.
Around 20 degrees, conventional salt works considerably more slowly than it does near freezing. Below approximately 15 degrees, salt alone may struggle to melt ice quickly enough to improve traction.
That matters for motorists traveling through Minneapolis in Hennepin County, St. Paul in Ramsey County, St. Cloud in Stearns County and Alexandria in Douglas County.
Major corridors including I 94, I 35, I 90 and I 494 can remain slippery despite treatment, especially on bridges, elevated ramps and stretches exposed to blowing snow.
Thanksgiving Travel Could Increase the Danger Thanksgiving falls Thursday, Nov. 26, when holiday travelers will be using Minnesota's major highways to reach family gatherings across the state and neighboring Wisconsin, Iowa and the Dakotas.
If snow, freezing rain or bitter cold develops during the holiday travel period, even treated interstates could become hazardous.
Blowing snow can also cover previously cleared lanes, while falling pavement temperatures can allow moisture to refreeze.
The Minnesota Department of Transportation uses plowing, salt and other winter maintenance treatments, but no method guarantees ice free roads under every condition.
Before departing, drivers should check National Weather Service forecasts and MnDOT's 511 traveler information service for current road conditions, traffic cameras and travel alerts.
The bottom line: Salted does not mean safe. Reduce speed, increase following distances and remain alert for icy patches, particularly on bridges and during overnight travel.