Storm closes area schools

MANKATO - The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) advised no unnecessary travel in south central and southwestern Minnesota Monday due to snow and ice-compacted roads and reduced visibility.

Schools and some businesses were closed Monday morning as snow and ice made traveling difficult.

A winter storm warning was in effect for all of south central Minnesota until noon today.

On Monday afternoon, MnDOT advised no travel in southern Minnesota until weather and road conditions improved.

Storm total snowfall amounts from Sunday through Tuesday morning were forecast between 6 and 11 inches.

As of Monday morning, 7.5 inches of snow was reported at Willmar.

Other measurements were 5 inches at Green Lisle, 4.4 inches at Hutchinson, 3.5 inches at St.James, and 1 inch at Springfield.

State highway department plow operators have been plowing roads since Sunday and will continue to do so throughout the snowfall period.

No interstate or road closures were anticipated but driving conditions were listed as difficult plus higher winds were forecast, creating blowing and drifting snow conditions Monday and Monday night.

About an inch of snow was forecast for Tuesday with blowing and drifting snow forecast throughout the day.

The state highway department reminded motorists to follow safe winter driving practices including:

Planning ahead, allowing extra travel time.

Clearing snow and ice from vehicle windows, hood, headlights, brake lights and turn signals before driving.

Driving under posted speed limits to avoid accidents and minimize those that happen.

Keeping a safe stopping distance between vehicles. Leaving extra room between your vehicle and snow plows or other removal equipment.

Always use seat belts.

Adjust speed to road and weather conditions.

Turning on headlights when it's sleeting or snowing.

For updated information, call 511 or visit www.511mn.org

(Fritz Busch can be e-mailed at fbusch@nujournal.com).