Marshall, MN – A powerful burst of winter weather continues to impact southwestern Minnesota, where a Winter Storm Warning remains in effect until 3 a.m. Wednesday, bringing strong winds, blowing snow, and slick roadways across multiple counties.
Residents in Lincoln, Lyon, Murray, and Cottonwood Counties—including the cities of Marshall, Windom, and Slayton—have been urged to stay alert as hazardous conditions linger into the early morning hours. According to the National Weather Service in Sioux Falls, the system is delivering light snow paired with wind gusts reaching 45 mph, creating a dangerous combination of reduced visibility and slippery surfaces along local highways and rural routes.
Storm Overview and Current Conditions
Forecasters report that snowfall totals will remain low, with less than a half inch expected overnight. However, winter hazards stem largely from the wind rather than heavy accumulation. Blowing and drifting snow may cover stretches of roadway unexpectedly, particularly in open and untreated areas.
Officials warn that visibility could quickly deteriorate as the storm continues pushing across the region. In some areas, motorists may experience visibility dropping to a half mile or less as winds whip newly fallen snow across travel lanes.
Travel Concerns and Road Safety Conditions
The combination of slick roads and powerful winds has created conditions ripe for travel disruptions. While major highways remain open, drifting snow and icy patches are making driving unpredictable—especially overnight when temperatures continue to fall.
Transportation officials caution drivers about potential hazards from fallen tree branches, which remain a concern due to the intensity of recent wind gusts.
Motorists are encouraged to stay vigilant, avoid sudden braking, and maintain extra following distance. Rural and elevated roadways are of particular concern as they are more exposed to drifting snow and freezing winds.
National Weather Service Alerts and Local Impact
The National Weather Service advises that although the region will see gradual improvement around daybreak, residents should not underestimate the lingering effects of the storm. Even minimal snow combined with 40–45 mph wind gusts can create dangerous driving conditions.
The storm is expected to move out of the area later Wednesday morning, ushering in a quieter but colder stretch of weather leading into the Thanksgiving holiday. Temperatures are anticipated to dip as skies clear, making untreated surfaces susceptible to refreezing.
Safety Tips for Residents and Travelers
With winter hazards continuing across much of southwestern Minnesota, officials recommend taking additional precautions to stay safe:
- Allow extra travel time during the early morning commute.
- Keep headlights on low beam to improve visibility in blowing snow.
- Reduce speed on icy or untreated roads.
- Carry an emergency kit including warm clothing, a flashlight, and phone charger.
- Check local road conditions before leaving home.
As always, Minnesota’s 511 service and the Minnesota Department of Transportation’s online resources offer real-time updates on closures, delays, and road surface conditions.
Regional Outlook Moving Into the Holiday
As the winter storm finally exits the area, residents can expect calmer weather but a noticeable drop in temperatures. Cold air behind the system may create light refreezing during the morning commute, but overall conditions should improve steadily by midday Wednesday.
Forecasters continue to monitor additional systems developing to the west, though no new alerts have been issued for the Thanksgiving period. Still, travelers should remain prepared for rapidly changing weather as winter begins to take hold across the Upper Midwest.
Conclusion
Southwestern Minnesota remains under close watch as strong winds and drifting snow continue to pose winter hazards into early Wednesday. With visibility concerns, slick roadways, and ongoing gusts, drivers are urged to remain cautious until conditions fully stabilize later in the morning.
Have you experienced winter travel challenges in this region? Share your experiences in the comments below.
