minnesota is in the midst of a major March snowstorm with serious impacts expected Sunday, as officials issued a no travel advisory for parts of southern Minnesota and warned conditions could remain hazardous into Monday (ET).
What Happens When Minnesota issues a no travel advisory and activates emergency support?
The storm’s severity prompted Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz to sign an executive order authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to support emergency operations until storm-related conditions subside. A weather alert is in effect into Monday tied to the storm’s effects, with the event described as likely the biggest of the season.
On the roads, the Minnesota State Patrol detailed a surge of incidents during the storm’s early stretch. Between midnight and 1 p. m. Sunday, there were 49 property damage crashes statewide. It also logged 11 spinouts and 211 cars off the road, along with seven jackknifed semis. Two crashes resulted in injuries.
What If travel disruptions deepen: flights, highways, and closures?
Air travel disruptions intensified Sunday at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, where hundreds of flights were canceled. Airlines advised travelers to rebook, reflecting the widespread operational strain created by the storm.
On the ground, the Minnesota Department of Transportation said it would close Interstate 35 southbound at Albert Lea by 3 p. m. Sunday. Officials in Iowa intended to close the area to the south around that time as well. MnDOT said it would keep the southbound highway closed until officials reopen it in Iowa, linking the reopening timeline to conditions beyond the state line.
With more than a foot of snow expected in parts of Minnesota by Monday, dozens of schools and organizations were expected to stay closed, adding an additional layer of disruption beyond transportation.
What If state government shifts to remote operations as snow totals climb?
State government schedules were also adjusted as the storm pushed into Sunday afternoon. The Minnesota House announced that all committee meetings have been canceled for Monday due to the snowstorm. House leaders said the plan is for the 3: 30 p. m. floor session to occur, with remote participation encouraged for members unable to arrive safely.
As of 2: 30 p. m. Sunday, the Minnesota Senate’s Monday committee meetings remained planned as scheduled, underscoring that the storm’s operational impact may differ across institutions and regions.
Snowfall totals weather observers highlighted how quickly conditions deteriorated. Fifteen inches fell overnight in Wabasha, while Lakeville and Cannon Falls saw more than 12 inches. Savage received around 10. 5 inches, Champlin recorded 6. 4 inches, and Edina saw 5. 7 inches. The Twin Cities area was also forecast to pick up additional snow, with another 6 to 10 inches likely.
For residents and travelers, the immediate outlook is defined by official advisories, continued transportation interruptions, and the prospect of ongoing closures into Monday (ET) as crews and emergency operations work under sustained storm conditions in minnesota.
