I-90 closures in winter?

[JenLee]

Thanks, Dan!

[fromupthere]

Not sure why we needed such a big explanation about stretches of I90 and I94 that have nothing to do with the stretch of I90 in question and MDOT was already contacted. Not to mention it was pointed out already why it would close. Thanks for the info though I guess.

[JenLee]

*I* was curious; because through the years I've traveled the MN interstates and my perception has always been that the stretch of I-90 west of Rochester gets closed more often than other roads here.

Plus, I thought asking the weather expert here about the closures would cut down on the disagreements about the Interstate closures.

And it might reassure others that we aren't the frozen tundra that they seem to think we are.

[golfgal]

I-90 closes near the South Dakota border much more frequently then it does near Rochester. There is nothing to block the wind on the western side of the state, also fewer people traveling on the road allowing more snow to accumulate on the roads during a snowfall.

[Rennfam]

Thanks again! It's always good to hear what the scoop from those "on the ground" is!

[Grannysroost]

Definitely closes more on the SD side, as wide open - SD does not use salt so gets really nasty - and if are going across to WY - forget it - watch the weather before you leave, way ugly as too wide open and the wind doesn't stop - done that too many times...LaCrosse to Rochester is spit in bucket compared to going west...

[crazyme4878]

I think it is important for people who are moving to "snowy" states from less or none snowy states to realize that not being able to get to school or work in a large snow storm is not a problem (usually). We are all use to having a large storm upset the schedule once in awhile. There is endless weather covereage, so you usually know about one coming. Schools will close and if it is really bad, many workplaces will as well. Certainly, bosses understand if you call in and can't make it--they would rather have an alive employee missing a day of work than a dead one. And if you have a job that doesn't stop for snowstorms (i.e. doctor, police officer), all you usually have to do is make a few calls and someone with a plow and 4WD will come get you (that is part of the "MN Nice" that some other people have lamblasted).

I know this isn't totally on subject, but its a common concern for people looking to relocate to the area. At least the subject seems to come up a lot on the MN, WI, and MI forums.

[Rennfam]

Thanks Dan!