How Minnesota Was Paralyzed by White‑Out Snow Chaos in 2026 – Drivers Warned Roads Turned Deadly Overnight!

Minnesota residents were faced with challenging travel conditions in February, 2026, as a snowstorm swept across the state, causing significant disruptions, particularly in the Twin Cities area and southwestern parts of the state. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) issued warnings for blowing snow, low visibility, and ice-covered roads, leading to travel advisories being lifted by 6 p.m. following a stormy afternoon.

Snow and Blowing Winds Disrupt Travel Across Minnesota

The weather took a sharp turn for the worse on Wednesday afternoon, with snow rapidly blanketing roads and reducing visibility in various parts of the state. Twin Cities drivers, gearing up for the evening commute, found themselves navigating through deteriorating weather conditions, including snow-covered roads and strong winds that created blizzard-like conditions. MnDOT officials urged drivers to remain cautious and drive according to current conditions.

While the no travel advisory initially impacted large parts of southwestern Minnesota, the warning was officially lifted by early evening. The advisory had been issued due to blowing snow and severely reduced visibility, which made travel hazardous in open areas without windbreaks. MnDOT reminded motorists that many roads remained snow- or ice-covered, which continued to present dangers for commuters.

“Motorists should drive according to conditions when traveling,” MnDOT said in their release, stressing that visibility could still be a problem, especially in open, flat areas where there were few barriers to block the wind.

Travel Disruptions and Incidents Reported

As expected, the snowstorm contributed to several traffic incidents throughout the day. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, there were 19 injury crashes between midnight and 5 p.m., with an additional 277 property damage crashes. The weather also caused 207 vehicles to go off the road, with 14 semis reported as having jack-knifed, further complicating efforts to clear the roads.

In the Twin Cities, drivers faced increasingly poor visibility as the snowstorm intensified. A photo captured by KARE 11 digital producer Felicity Dachel from the passenger seat of a vehicle traveling on westbound I-94 in Minneapolis showed the stark reality of the storm. What should have been a clear view of the Minneapolis skyline near Cedar-Riverside was instead a complete white-out, illustrating the severe visibility challenges drivers were facing.

MnDOT and State Patrol Urge Caution for Drivers

By the evening of February 18, MnDOT had lifted the no travel advisories for southwestern Minnesota, though the department continued to warn motorists to drive with extra caution. Roads were still icy and snow-covered, and visibility remained limited in certain areas, especially in open spaces exposed to strong winds.

The Minnesota State Patrol reminded drivers that winter driving conditions could change quickly, and they should remain vigilant even after the advisories were lifted. The patrol encouraged everyone to check for updated travel conditions through MnDOT’s online resources at 511mn.org before setting out on the roads.

The Struggles of Winter Driving in Minnesota

The snowstorm on February 18 was another reminder of the challenges faced by Minnesota residents during the winter months, when weather conditions can quickly turn dangerous. Winter storms in the region often create travel disruptions, and these storms highlight the importance of being prepared for emergencies, as well as understanding how weather conditions can impact road safety.

For many Minnesota drivers, especially those unaccustomed to heavy snow, navigating through blizzards and low visibility can be a harrowing experience. Even with the state’s robust infrastructure and road maintenance efforts, driving in winter conditions remains risky. It’s common for Minnesota drivers to face difficulties on snowy highways and icy roads, leading to the necessity of careful planning and precautionary measures before venturing out in such conditions.

A Look Ahead to Continuing Winter Conditions

As snow showers continue to impact parts of Minnesota, travel advisories may remain in place for certain areas in the coming days. Although conditions had improved by the evening of February 18, MnDOT will continue to monitor the weather closely and issue further guidance for travelers as needed.

Residents of Minnesota are urged to stay updated on changing weather forecasts and travel conditions, particularly when venturing out during peak commuting hours. The state’s winter storm season is far from over, and drivers should remain prepared for potential snow and icy conditions in the weeks ahead.

Conclusion

As Minnesota residents prepare for more snow-covered roads and potential travel disruptions, the importance of staying informed and exercising caution cannot be overstated. MnDOT and the Minnesota State Patrol continue to monitor the situation, providing crucial information to keep drivers safe. Whether facing blowing snow or ice-covered highways, being aware of the weather and road conditions can make a significant difference in ensuring a safe journey.

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