ST CLOUD, Minn. (2:36 p.m.) – The Minnesota Department of Transportation is advising no travel on I-94 through Stearns County. The segment of I-94 with No Travel Advised now extends from the Minnesota/North Dakota border to Clearwater.
No Travel Advised means that the roadway has deteriorated and/or visibility has been reduced to the point that it is very dangerous to travel; there are reports of intermittent white out conditions; and, some weather conditions can be severe enough that road treatments, such as salt or sand, are not effective.
Motorists are advised not to travel in these areas until conditions improve.
Driving conditions remain hazardous in other areas of central Minnesota. A combination of high sustained wind speeds, wind gusts and ice covered or compacted roads in Stearns, Wright, Benton, Sherburne and Mille Lacs counties and bordering areas are contributing to difficult driving and crashes.
Snow plows are out on every state road in the counties listed above, and operate between 20 and 30 miles per hour during a snow storm. Motorists who choose to travel must reduce their speed, watch for snow plows operating at 20-30 miles per hour and be prepared to slow down or stop if necessary.
For additional tips on safe winter driving, go to mndot.gov/workzone/winter.html.
For real-time traffic and travel information in Minnesota, visit www.511mn.org or get the free smartphone app at Google Play or the App Store.