Minneapolis, MN – Drivers in central Minnesota and western Wisconsin are facing hazardous conditions this week as dense morning fog reduces visibility to a quarter mile or less on major highways, including I-94 and I-35. Commuters are urged to exercise caution and plan for slower travel through Friday, September 26.
Fog Conditions and Travel Hazards
The National Weather Service in Chanhassen reports that widespread fog will settle across the region each morning through Friday. Conditions are particularly dangerous during early commute hours, affecting traffic from St. Cloud to the Twin Cities metro and east into western Wisconsin.
Travelers on rural stretches of Highway 52 near Rochester and Highway 169 in southern Minnesota may encounter the thickest fog pockets, leading to potential slowdowns and delays. Morning school bus routes are also likely to experience disruptions.
Safety Recommendations for Drivers
Authorities advise motorists to follow these safety measures:
- Allow extra travel time for morning commutes.
- Use headlights and maintain a safe following distance.
- Avoid high speeds on major highways.
“Drivers should remain alert and avoid rushing through foggy areas, as reduced visibility can create hazardous conditions even on familiar routes,” warned local officials.
Weather Outlook for the Week
By late morning, sunlight is expected to break through, improving driving conditions. Afternoon temperatures will rise into the upper 70s and low 80s on Thursday and Friday, offering warm, sunny stretches once the fog clears.
Looking ahead to the first weekend of fall, residents can expect mostly sunny skies with highs in the mid-70s. While the region avoids early winter chills for now, colder nights may arrive in early October.
Five-Day Forecast for Minneapolis, MN
| Day | Conditions | High | Low |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wednesday | Mostly sunny | 74°F | 56°F |
| Thursday | Sunny | 80°F | 57°F |
| Friday | Sunny | 79°F | 62°F |
| Saturday | Sunny | 75°F | 54°F |
| Sunday | Mostly sunny | 80°F | 58°F |
Conclusion
With dense fog expected each morning through Friday, drivers in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area should exercise caution, plan alternate routes if possible, and stay alert on major highways. Morning commutes remain the riskiest, but afternoons are expected to clear with sunny, warm conditions.
What precautions are you taking during this foggy week? Share your tips and experiences in the comments below.
