While much of Minnesota was spared from heavy snowfall on Friday, gusty winds overnight and early Saturday led to blizzard conditions in certain parts of the state. In response to the hazardous weather, the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) issued a no-travel advisory on Saturday morning for significant areas of northwest Minnesota, including Ada, Crookston, East Grand Forks, and Hallock. The advisory was prompted by high winds causing blowing snow, resulting in zero visibility.

In addition to the no-travel advisory in northwest Minnesota, northeastern North Dakota also faced similar conditions, leading to a no-travel advisory for the stretch between Grand Forks and the Canadian border, including Interstate 29. A blizzard warning remained in effect until 6 p.m. on Saturday for a majority of the Red River Valley, while southwestern parts of Minnesota, such as Worthington and Marshall, along with areas of South Dakota and Iowa, were under a blizzard warning until midnight.

While roads in southwest Minnesota were reported to be open on Saturday morning, they were described as snow-covered and slippery by MnDOT. Unfortunately, the treacherous conditions led to numerous accidents and road incidents. The State Patrol reported over 200 crashes and 65 spinouts or vehicles in ditches along state and federal highways between Friday 6 a.m. and Saturday 7:30 a.m.

Meanwhile, in Iowa, transportation officials advised against travel across much of the state, as some roads were rendered impassable due to the severe weather conditions. Southern and central regions of Minnesota received less snow than initially predicted, with only a dusting to a couple of inches in the Twin Cities metro area. However, southeast Minnesota saw significant snowfall, with reports of 6.8 inches near Houston, 6.5 inches in Rochester, and 6 inches near Wabasha. Heavier snowfall was reported in neighboring regions of Iowa and Wisconsin.

As the blizzards subside, Minnesota braces itself for a blast of bitter cold air that is expected to envelop the region in the coming days. Residents are urged to stay updated on weather conditions and exercise caution while traveling.