Rochester, Minnesota – Drivers across the Minnesota-Iowa-Wisconsin tri-state region could face sudden crosswinds strong enough to push vehicles off course by late Wednesday morning, especially along open highways and rural roads.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Des Moines, La Crosse, and the Twin Cities, a Wind Advisory takes effect at 10 a.m. and continues through 4 p.m. Wednesday, with southwest winds sustained between 20 and 30 mph and gusts reaching up to 45 mph. The alert spans southern Minnesota, northern and central Iowa, and western Wisconsin border counties.
In Iowa, the strongest impacts are expected along the I-35 corridor and Highways 20 and 30, including Mason City, Ames, Waterloo, and Fort Dodge. In Minnesota, cities like Albert Lea, Austin, and Rochester will see peak gusts during the midday hours. Open farmland and elevated roadways will see the most dangerous crosswinds.
Loose outdoor items could be blown several feet, and isolated power outages are possible if tree limbs snap under repeated gusts. High-profile vehicles, including semis and box trucks, face the greatest risk, particularly on north-south routes.
Residents should secure patio furniture, trash bins, and decorations before 10 a.m. Travel during peak wind hours should be limited when possible, especially for lightweight or tall vehicles.
Winds will begin easing after 4 p.m., but additional advisories remain possible if conditions persist into the evening.
