Winter Storm Forces School Closures and E-Learning Days in Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – Overnight snowfall has led to numerous school delays, closures, and transitions to e-learning days across Minnesota on Wednesday due to hazardous weather conditions.

A winter storm bringing substantial snow overnight has left parts of the state grappling with poor road conditions and low visibility, prompting school districts to take precautionary measures. According to the National Weather Service, snow is projected to continue falling through Wednesday evening.

As of early Wednesday, a blizzard warning was issued for the North Shore region, which includes Two Harbors, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais, set to remain in effect until 10 p.m. “Whiteout conditions are possible, especially along State Highway 61,” the NWS stated.

Winter storm warnings blanket much of northern and central Minnesota, as the icy roads lead to numerous accidents, including crashes and spinouts in the northern Twin Cities metro area. The Duluth city bus service announced the suspension of all bus routes after 6 p.m. due to the deteriorating road conditions.

Utility companies across Minnesota reported scattered power outages affecting several hundred homes and businesses, attributed to the wintry mix of precipitation contributing to the hazardous travel conditions.

As a result of the weather disruption, dozens of school districts either canceled classes or shifted to online learning for Wednesday. Snowfall totals are expected to exceed six inches in several areas, including Moorhead, Alexandria, Bemidji, Brainerd, and the Iron Range by the evening. In certain parts of the North Shore, totals could surpass a foot.

This storm is notably different from earlier winter events this season, bringing slushy, heavy snow that poses increased risks of heart attacks and back injuries for those shoveling. The Minnesota Department of Health recommends staying hydrated and taking regular breaks when clearing pathways.

Community members are encouraged to check for regular weather updates and road conditions from state transportation departments, and MPR News lists comprehensive details on school closures, delays, and e-learning days. Live updates are also provided by Metro Transit for bus and light rail services in the Twin Cities.

For those planning to travel, Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport and other airports in the region are offering online flight status updates.