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.