The winter storm the National Weather Service had been tracking arrived as anticipated and as had been feared, it has caused dangerous traveling conditions throughout the region.

On Wednesday, the Minnesota Department began issuing advisories to warn travelers to avoid the most difficult roads in the state. By midday, there were No Travel Advisories issued throughout 7 counties.

MnDOT notes that a No Travel Advisory means that the roadway has deteriorated and/or visibility has been reduced to the point that it is very dangerous to travel.

The first No Travel Advisory was issued for Highway 14 and all state highways south of Highway 14 in Lincoln, Lyon, Redwood, Pipestone, and Murray counties. This was because strong winds and blowing snow created intermittent whiteout conditions and drifts which quickly backfilled as soon as they were plowed. Until conditions improve, no travel is advised throughout those 5 counties.

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Shortly after issuing that advisory, MnDOT issued another No Travel Advisory for all state highways and Interstate 90 in Nobles and Rock counties in southcentral Minnesota. This was due to strong winds and blowing snow creating blizzard and whiteout conditions. Again, until conditions improve travel is not recommended in this area.

While those areas of the state have received the worst of this winter storm thus far, it is making its way further north and places like the Duluth/Superior area are still expected to receive significant snowfall Wednesday night into Thursday afternoon, with cold and blustery conditions.

While spared the storm's wrath so far, there is still a Winter Storm Warning in effect for the Twin Ports. Here is an updated forecast from the National Weather Service:

Wednesday Night: Snow, mainly after 8 pm. The snow could be heavy at times. Widespread blowing snow, mainly after midnight. Low around 2. Windy, with a northeast wind of 20 to 25 mph, with gusts as high as 40 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%. Total nighttime snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches is possible.

Thursday: Snow, mainly before 2 pm. Widespread blowing snow, mainly before 9 am. High near 9. Windy, with a north wind of 20 to 25 mph decreasing to 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph. The chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 2 to 4 inches is possible.

READ ON: Good Winter Driving Tips

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