Image of Highway 212 between Renville and Olivia courtesy MNDoT

The Minnesota Department of Transportation advises travelers that strong winds and blowing snow could create poor visibility and hazardous driving conditions through the remainder of the week in southwest Minnesota.

According to the National Weather Service, accumulated snow could set the stage for blizzard conditions when northwest winds increase on Thursday. They advise that below zero temperatures and wind gusts of 30-40 mph will create extremely dangerous wind chills, and that conditions could be life-threatening if travelers were to become stranded.

Travelers should consider changing travel plans until the blizzard warning is no longer in effect. If travel is necessary, monitor the National Weather Service forecasts for the latest information and 511mn.org to see road conditions, weather alerts and travel advisories. If No Travel Advisories are issued or roads are closed, they will be posted on 511mn.org.