A huge number of crashes, spin-outs, and jackknifes were reported on Minnesota roadways overnight due to poor driving conditions.
MnDOT reports that a huge majority of roadways throughout the state are covered in ice and snow from a serious winter storm that rolled through the area on Tuesday.
#MSPNumbers Statewide 9:00 pm 12/29/20 to 8:00 am 12/30/20: 113 crashes (8 with injury, 0 serious/fatal) & 117 veh spin out/off road & 2 jackknifed semis
— State Patrol PIO (@MSPPIO) December 30, 2020
As a result of the storm, MN News reports that 99 crashes were reported between noon and 9 p.m. on Tuesday.
I94 WB mp121 (west of Sauk Centre) jackknifed semi – blocking WB left lane. Troopers on scene assisting and removing. With slick roads & wind – vehicles pulling large box trailers that are empty or lightly loaded having issues. pic.twitter.com/z8h3m4wFBA
— Sgt. Jesse Grabow (@MSPPIO_NW) December 30, 2020
Then, between 9 p.m. on Tuesday evening and 8 a.m. on Wednesday morning, the Minnesota State Patrol received more statewide reports of 113 crashes, including eight that caused injuries, 117 spinouts, and two jackknifed semi-trucks. Three more jackknifed semi trucks were then reported just after 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 30th.
Only one of the reported crashed included a motorist fatality.
WC MN: I94 milepost 7 WB (east of Moorhead) semi vs passenger car crash (no inj) blocking WB. Traffic being rerouted WB I94 at exit 15 (Downer). Empty and light loaded semi trailers w/slick roads & wind having issues. Troopers are out. Will advise when open. pic.twitter.com/hxp4G0E8b8
— Sgt. Jesse Grabow (@MSPPIO_NW) December 30, 2020
Luckily, the state of Minnesota is expected to remain fairly dry and snow-storm free until at least early next week. Stay safe out there, drivers!
⚠️TRAFFIC ALERT⚠️
— Shakopee Police (@ShakopeePD) December 30, 2020
Jackknifed semi completely blocking Hwy 169 S near the 101/13 split. Please use an alternate route. Emergency crews are on scene. pic.twitter.com/hNG1em6kR5