International Falls, MN – Snow-covered roads are creating immediate travel hazards across northern Minnesota this afternoon, with conditions expected to worsen through the evening commute as additional accumulation builds.
According to the National Weather Service in Duluth, a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect for Koochiching and North Itasca counties until 10 p.m. Saturday, with an added 1 to 4 inches of snow expected. The warning includes International Falls, Bigfork, and the Bois Forte Band areas including Nett Lake and Deer Creek.
Roads across Highway 53 and rural county routes are turning slick, especially on untreated surfaces and shaded stretches. Visibility may briefly drop during heavier bursts, increasing the risk of spinouts. The Minnesota Department of Transportation urges drivers to check 511 before heading out, as conditions can shift quickly into the evening hours.
Residents are advised to limit non-essential travel and keep emergency supplies in vehicles, including water, food, and a flashlight. Temperatures hovering near freezing will prevent rapid melting, allowing snow to stick to roadways.
Snow will taper off later tonight, but slick conditions may linger into early Sunday morning. Additional updates or advisories could be issued if conditions worsen.
