Storm Forced Closure of I-90, Other Major Roads

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Tuesday's snow and strong winds produced whiteout conditions at times across most of southern Minnesota.

That led to the closure of a large number of roads, especially in south central and southwestern parts of the state where most major roads and highways south of Highway 14 were closed at one point.The nearly 200 mile section of I-90 between Albert Lea and the South Dakota border finally re-opened around 8:30 Wednesday morning.

There were numerous traffic wrecks and mishaps during the brunt of the storm.The Minnesota State Patrol says it recorded 450 accidents between 10 a.m. Tuesday and 10: a.m. Wednesday.  About 40 involved injuries and two were classified as serious. The Patrol also responded to nearly 500 spinouts and vehicles that left the road.

The Rochester School District decided Tuesday afternoon to cancel Wednesday's classes for a second straight day. Other area districts were also closed or opening late Wednesday,