Worthington, Minnesota – Blowing snow and powerful winds are creating ground blizzard conditions across southwest Minnesota and northwest Iowa early Monday, rapidly dropping visibility and making travel extremely dangerous before sunrise.
According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, a Blizzard Warning remains in effect until 7 a.m. Monday for counties across southwest Minnesota, including Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, Cottonwood, Nobles, Jackson, and Pipestone. Wind gusts reaching 45 mph are lifting loose snow and sweeping it across roads, producing sudden whiteouts.
Communities including Worthington, Marshall, Windom, Slayton, Pipestone, and Jackson are seeing the worst conditions before the morning commute. Blowing snow along Interstate 90 and U.S. Highway 59 could quickly cover lanes and reduce visibility to near zero in open areas.
Across the border in northwest Iowa, including Spencer, Spirit Lake, Storm Lake, Cherokee, and Sheldon, the Blizzard Warning also remains in effect until 7 a.m. Monday. Winds may reach 50 mph, intensifying ground blizzard conditions even where snowfall has tapered.
Transportation officials urge residents to avoid non-essential travel and check road conditions through 511 services before leaving home. Drivers who must travel should carry a winter survival kit, extra clothing, and a charged phone. Anyone stranded should remain with their vehicle until help arrives.
Conditions are expected to slowly improve after sunrise Monday, though blowing and drifting snow may continue to impact rural roads across southwest Minnesota and northwest Iowa through the morning hours.
