Winter Storm Batters Minnesota, Bringing ‘Potentially Life-Threatening Travel Conditions’
Date: December 29, 2025
By: Vagabond News Desk | The Vagabond News
A powerful winter storm swept across Minnesota on Sunday, dumping heavy snow, whipping up strong winds, and creating what authorities warned were “potentially life-threatening travel conditions” across large parts of the state.
The storm, driven by an intense Arctic system, led to near-whiteout conditions in rural areas and rapidly deteriorating roads in and around major cities, including Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Travel Grind to a Halt
The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings covering much of southern and central Minnesota, forecasting snowfall totals of 8 to 14 inches in some areas, accompanied by wind gusts exceeding 40 miles per hour.
“These conditions can become dangerous very quickly,” the agency said in an advisory, urging residents to avoid nonessential travel. “If you are stranded, stay with your vehicle and call for help.”
The Minnesota State Patrol reported dozens of spin-outs and crashes as highways turned slick with snow and ice. Several major routes experienced temporary closures as plows struggled to keep up with the rapidly accumulating snow.
Power Outages and Emergency Responses
Strong winds and heavy snow also led to scattered power outages, particularly in southern Minnesota, where utility crews worked through the storm to restore service. Local emergency management officials opened warming centers in some communities as temperatures plunged well below freezing.
Air travel was also disrupted, with delays and cancellations reported at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, compounding holiday travel woes.
Officials Urge Caution
Governor Tim Walz said state agencies were fully mobilized, but emphasized that individual caution remained critical. “Our crews are out, but no amount of preparation can make travel safe in these conditions,” he said in a statement. “Please stay home if you can.”
Meteorologists warned that blowing snow could continue to reduce visibility even after snowfall tapers off, prolonging hazardous conditions into Monday.
What to Expect Next
Forecasters said the storm system is expected to move east overnight, but bitter cold will follow in its wake, raising concerns about frostbite and refreezing on roads. Authorities cautioned that cleanup efforts could take days in some areas.
For now, Minnesotans are being advised to stay indoors, monitor official alerts, and check on vulnerable neighbors as the state endures one of its most severe winter storms of the season.
