Minneapolis, Minnesota – A light but impactful wintry mix is creating dangerous travel conditions across much of southern Minnesota and western Wisconsin early Monday, with icy roads affecting drivers during the peak morning commute. Freezing rain mixed with sleet and snow has already coated untreated roads, bridges, and sidewalks with a thin glaze of ice, leading to slick and unpredictable driving conditions.
According to the National Weather Service offices in Chanhassen and La Crosse, Winter Weather Advisories remain in effect until 8 a.m. across large portions of central and southern Minnesota and into west-central and southwest Wisconsin. Snow accumulations are generally under an inch, but even minor ice buildup is enough to cause significant travel issues.
In Minnesota, impacts stretch from the Twin Cities metro — including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Eagan, Chaska, and Stillwater — south through Mankato, Faribault, Owatonna, Albert Lea, Rochester, Winona, and Austin. In Wisconsin, slippery conditions are reported in Eau Claire, Menomonie, Hudson, La Crosse, Black River Falls, Sparta, and surrounding communities.
Transportation officials urge motorists to slow down, increase following distance, and avoid sudden maneuvers. Road conditions may remain slick even after precipitation tapers off shortly after sunrise, especially on untreated surfaces. Additional advisories could be issued if freezing conditions linger into mid-morning.
