Hennepin County, MN – Authorities are reminding residents that lake ice is not fully safe after a vehicle broke through the ice on Lake Minnetonka over the weekend, prompting new warnings around the area.
According to the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the incident happened Saturday near Howard’s Point when a driver in a small SUV attempted to cross the ice and went through after driving over a pressure ridge. Pressure ridges are areas where ice shifts and cracks, often creating unstable and thinner ice conditions.
The driver reported being “neck-deep” in water but was able to safely exit the vehicle and walk to shore without assistance. Officials said the driver declined medical help at the scene.
No injuries were reported, but the SUV remains submerged. Authorities confirmed the driver is now responsible for arranging the vehicle’s removal from the lake.
Following the incident, thin ice warning markers have been placed around Howard’s Point to alert others of dangerous conditions. The sheriff’s office emphasized that while ice may appear solid in some areas, thickness can vary drastically due to weather, currents, and pressure ridges.
Officials are urging residents to avoid driving vehicles on frozen lakes and to use extreme caution when walking or recreating on ice, especially as temperatures fluctuate.
Lake Minnetonka, located in Hennepin County west of the Minneapolis–St. Paul metro, sees heavy winter activity each year, but authorities stress that ice is never 100% safe, even during prolonged cold periods.
Residents are encouraged to check local ice safety reports and heed posted warnings before venturing out.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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