Minnesota woke up to a deep freeze on Wednesday as a powerful winter storm swept across the state, forcing dozens of school districts to cancel classes, delay openings, or move to virtual learning. The early-season snow system delivered a messy mix of heavy snowfall, fierce winds and rapidly dropping temperatures, disrupting travel, knocking out power and creating dangerous conditions across multiple regions.

By sunrise, residents across central and eastern Minnesota were already reporting significant accumulation. Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport recorded just over 3 inches, while several communities in central Minnesota reported up to 8 inches of snow. The National Weather Service placed much of the state — including the Arrowhead region, the Twin Cities and parts of southern Minnesota — under a winter storm warning, with a NEXT Weather Alert also active.

Alongside the snow, brutal winds sweeping through Tuesday night into Wednesday morning created whiteout conditions, blowing snow back onto cleared roads and severely reducing visibility. Forecasters warned that wind gusts in some parts of the state were reaching 50 mph, worsening the morning commute.

Travel in Crisis: Crashes, Spinouts and Road Closures

The hazardous weather led to a wave of traffic incidents as the storm progressed. Between noon Tuesday and early Wednesday morning, the Minnesota State Patrol responded to:

• 283 property-damage crashes

• 30 injury-related crashes

• 30 jackknifed semis

  
  
  

• More than 340 spinouts and vehicles in ditches

One of the most serious disruptions occurred along westbound Interstate 94, where a multivehicle crash involving several semis forced a temporary closure near Moorhead. While no severe injuries were reported, authorities warned travelers to stay cautious and avoid nonessential driving.

In several counties, no-travel advisories remained in place late into Tuesday evening as visibility worsened and ice formed on roads following the transition from rain to snow.

Thousands Left Without Power

Power outages added to the chaos. At the storm’s peak, more than 6,000 homes and businesses were without electricity. Communities in Douglas, Pope, Grant and Stevens counties were among the hardest hit before crews restored most service early Wednesday. Some utility companies were forced to pause repair efforts due to dangerous overnight conditions.

Schools React: Closures, Delays and E-Learning

The fast-changing weather conditions pushed many Minnesota schools to adjust schedules for Wednesday. While some districts were already off for the Thanksgiving break, others made last-minute decisions to protect staff and students.

Districts announcing full closures included Bemidji, Brainerd, Duluth, Osakis, Cloquet, Menahga, Yellow Medicine East, Fond du Lac Ojibwe, Lakeview, Morris Area, Nevis and several others.

A wide list of districts shifted to e-learning days, including Aitkin, Barnum, MACCRAY, Ortonville, GFW, Perham, and the University of Wisconsin–Superior.

Dozens more opted for two-hour late starts, such as Annandale, Ashby, Minnewaska, Detroit Lakes, Milaca, Pierz and Red Lake.

The storm complicated holiday travel plans for many families, but forecasters say conditions should gradually improve through Wednesday afternoon as snowfall tapers off — though winds are expected to remain strong.

What Happens Next?

Meteorologists expect snow showers to weaken by midday, though cleanup efforts may take longer as crews work to clear snow drifts and treat icy roads. Flyers are also encouraged to check for airport delays as Minneapolis–St. Paul, Duluth, Rochester and several regional airports update flight statuses.

As Minnesotans brace for the rest of the winter season, authorities are urging travelers and families to stay alert, use caution on the roads, and monitor weather updates closely.

FAQ

1. Why did so many Minnesota schools close?
Hazardous travel conditions from heavy snow, ice and high winds made morning commutes unsafe, prompting districts to close, delay or shift to virtual learning.

2. How much snow did Minnesota receive?
Some parts of central Minnesota recorded 8 inches, while the Twin Cities saw about 3 inches.

3. Were there major accidents?
Yes. Over 280 crashes and more than 340 spinouts were reported between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

4. Are more storms expected?
Forecasts suggest conditions will improve by Wednesday afternoon, but winds will remain strong.

5. Are flights affected?
Travelers are advised to check airport websites for delays before heading out.