MnDOT Offers New Ways to Receive Winter Driving Alerts

Motorists in Southeast Minnesota can now get alerts for winter driving conditions for state highways.

Mother nature is always changing in Minnesota and will test your winter driving abilities. Minnesotans have already seen that a little bit in 2020, and know it will continue. That is why the Minnesota Department of Transportation will now offer winter driving alerts sent by text message or email.

According to a Minnesota Department of Transportation press release, the new alerts are aimed at people who want to know of winter weather-related crashes, drifting snow conditions, ice roads, or any visibility issues that might cause difficult driving conditions.

“Motorists want information to help them make smart driving decisions,” said Mike Dougherty, MnDOT District 6 director of public engagement and communications in Rochester. “People can choose to sign up for the alerts either via text message or email, which gives them another option from MnDOT to be safe on the roads.”

The alerts will only be sent to motorists when there is significant weather likely to affect traveling in the region. Those who are interested in signing up for the alerts can do so on the MnDOT website. The counties available in Southeast Minnesota for alerts include Dodge, Fillmore, Freeborn, Goodhue, Houston, Mower, Olmsted, Rice, Steele, Wabasha, and Winona.

Alerts will also be sent if there are crashes that could delay or detour traffic for several hours. You can always get the latest Minnesota road condition on our app.

MnDOT will also post information on alerts regarding winter driving conditions in the area on social media, and use the hashtag #SEMNwinter.