Refreeze and Winds Creating Difficult Driving Conditions

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The Minnesota Department of Transportation is alerting motorists that strong winds, blowing snow and icy road conditions are creating difficult driving conditions across southeastern Minnesota.

As of late Thursday afternoon, a section of southbound I-35 north of Albert Lea is closed due to a multi-vehicle crash and it could take several hours to clear the crash scene. Law enforcement officers are also reporting difficult conditions on I-90 in Mower County, Highway 14 west of Dodge Center and on a number of other roadways in the region.

MnDOT snowplow operators are working to treat the roadways and clear the snow. Motorists can assist by remembering to:

• Stay alert for snowplows, which turn or exit frequently and often with little warning. They also may travel over centerlines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.
• Stay back at least 10 car lengths behind the plow. Don’t drive into a snow cloud.
• Slow down to a safe speed for current conditions.
• Turn on your headlights and wear your seat belt.
• Turn off the cruise control.
• Be patient and remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.
• Don’t drive distracted.

Check MnDOT’s road conditions map at www.511mn.org.