Minneapolis, Minnesota – Drivers across the Twin Cities and much of eastern Minnesota woke up to slick roads Tuesday morning as freezing rain and dense fog combined to create hazardous travel conditions. Even where rainfall tapers, untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks remain icy, raising concerns for the morning commute.
According to the National Weather Service in the Twin Cities, Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect through late morning for a large portion of eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin. Light but persistent freezing rain is producing ice accumulations up to a tenth of an inch across the metro, with slightly higher totals possible in western Wisconsin. Temperatures hovering near freezing have caused precipitation to switch between rain and freezing rain, complicating road conditions.
Counties including Hennepin, Ramsey, Anoka, Dakota, Washington, Wright, Sherburne, and Carver are seeing the greatest travel impacts. In western and central Minnesota, precipitation has largely ended, but dense fog and pockets of freezing fog continue to reduce visibility. Across western Wisconsin, including Eau Claire, Menomonie, Hudson, and River Falls, ice buildup of up to two-tenths of an inch may lead to slippery highways and sidewalks.
Transportation officials urge drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and allow extra travel time. Power outages remain possible where ice accumulates on lines. Road conditions can be checked by calling 511 in Minnesota or Wisconsin. Advisories remain in effect through midday, and slick spots may persist even after precipitation ends.
