St. Cloud, Minnesota – Drivers across central Minnesota could encounter sudden whiteout conditions today as powerful winds whip falling snow across highways, sharply reducing visibility and making travel dangerous through early Monday morning.
According to the National Weather Service in Chanhassen, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 4 a.m. Monday for much of central Minnesota, including St. Cloud, Alexandria, Little Falls, Princeton, Mora, and Benson. An additional 2 to 7 inches of snow is expected in the warned counties while northwest winds gust up to 45 mph.
The heaviest snowfall is developing across southern Minnesota early Sunday, with intense bands producing 2 to 3 inches per hour in some areas before spreading northeast toward western Wisconsin. Even as snowfall begins to taper later Sunday afternoon, strengthening winds will continue to blow snow across roads and open farmland.
Travel conditions may deteriorate quickly along Interstate 94, Highway 10, and Highway 23, where drifting snow could cover lanes and visibility may drop below a quarter mile in bursts of blowing snow.
Officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel and check Minnesota 511 road conditions before leaving home. Drivers who must travel should carry winter emergency kits including blankets, water, and phone chargers.
Blizzard conditions could persist well into the overnight hours before winds gradually weaken early Monday, though lingering blowing snow may still affect the morning commute.
