Monster Winter Storm Slams Minnesota: Blizzard Unleashes New Travel Chaos in the US

Published on December 29, 2025

A major winter storm has arrived in Minnesota, bringing with it high winds, snow, and hazardous travel conditions. The storm is expected to impact travel conditions throughout the weekend, with blizzard warnings and winter storm warnings in effect across parts of the state. The storm, which began on Sunday, has already caused significant disruptions, including flight delays, road closures, and power outages.

Blizzard Warnings and Winter Storm Warnings Issued

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for central Minnesota, which will remain in effect until 6 a.m. Monday. This warning indicates that near-blizzard conditions are likely due to high winds and intense snowfall. The combination of snow and wind gusts of up to 40 mph is expected to make travel extremely dangerous, especially along and east of Interstate 35, where the heaviest snowfall is predicted.

In addition to the blizzard warning, winter storm warnings are in effect for eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin from 12 p.m. Sunday until 9 a.m. Monday. These warnings suggest that winter storm conditions will continue to affect the region, with snow accumulation totals reaching up to 8 inches in some areas, including the Twin Cities. Areas to the southwest and northern parts of Minnesota will receive less snow, but the impact of blowing snowand slick roads will still pose a significant hazard.

Travel Impacts Across Minnesota

The winter storm has made travel difficult across much of the state, particularly along major highways like Interstate 35, where heaviest snow and blizzard conditions are expected. The Minnesota State Patrol has urged people to delay or cancel travel plans due to the dangerous conditions. Low visibility and snow accumulation are making driving conditions treacherous, especially in southwestern Minnesota, where travel is not advised due to blizzard-like conditions.

Road closures have already been reported, including a stretch of Interstate 35 in southern Minnesota, which was closed due to multiple accidents. The closure extended from Highway 14, just south of Owatonna, to Clarks Grove, and additional closures were expected to take place as the storm continued to move through the region. Authorities in both Minnesota and Iowa are working together to coordinate road closures and manage the impact of the storm. Travelers are being advised to stay up-to-date on road conditions through resources like 511mn.org.

Snow Emergencies Declared in Multiple Cities

As the storm continues to impact Minnesota, several cities have declared snow emergencies. Minneapolis, which is dealing with significant snowfall, has announced a snow emergency starting at 9 p.m. Sunday. Parking restrictions will be in place throughout the city, and residents are urged to follow snow emergency guidelines to ensure that streets can be plowed effectively. Other cities, including Eden Prairie, Hopkins, St. James, St. Louis Park, New Hope, Northfield, and West St. Paul, have also declared snow emergencies, urging residents to prepare for snow removal and disruptionsto daily activities.

Meanwhile, St. Paul has also been impacted by the snowstorm, with public works crews working throughout the day and evening to clear major streets. City officials have noted that residential side streets will remain snow-covered and compacted, so drivers are urged to exercise caution.

Flight Delays and Cancellations at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport

The winter storm has caused significant disruptions at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP). According to FlightAware, over 400 flights have been delayed, and nearly 150 flights have been canceled. A ground delay is also in effect at the airport, with passengers facing an average delay of four hours. The airport is advising travelers to check the status of their flights directly with their airlines, as the storm’s impact continues to affect airport operations.

The Metropolitan Airports Commission reports that MSP has been experiencing one of the busiest travel periods of the year, with roughly 50,000 people expected to pass through security checkpoints at the airport on Sunday. With holiday travel in full swing, these delays and cancellations are only adding to the stress and confusion faced by many travelers.

Minnesota National Guard Deployed for Emergency Operations

In response to the severe winter weather, Governor Tim Walz has declared a peacetime emergency and authorized the Minnesota National Guard to assist with emergency winter storm operations in southern Minnesota. The National Guard will provide personnel, equipment, and resources to help with rescuing stranded motorists and supporting emergency responders. The Governor emphasized the importance of keeping roads clear during this busy holiday travel season and thanked the National Guard for their assistance in ensuring driver safety.

Power Outages and Additional Disruptions

The winter storm has also caused widespread power outages across the state. According to Xcel Energy, nearly 2,500 people in the Twin Cities area were without power as of Sunday afternoon. Snow accumulation, combined with high winds, has led to downed power lines and electrical outages. Residents are being urged to report outages and stay updated on restoration efforts.

In addition, Trollhaugen, a ski area in Dresser, Wisconsin, was forced to close for the day due to a power outage. The power failure occurred at 11:30 a.m., with the facility expecting the power to be restored by 4:45 a.m. Monday.

Forecast and Outlook

While the storm is expected to ease by Monday morning, the aftermath will continue to affect road conditions and travel plans. Slick roads and blowing snow are expected to make the morning commute challenging. The forecast for the following days includes light snow north of Interstate 94 on Tuesday, with another round of snow possible on Wednesday, potentially bringing 1 to 2 inches of snow to the metro area. High temperatures are expected to drop to the teens for the remainder of the work week, continuing the cold conditions across the state.