Winter Storm Slams St. Paul, Emergency Declared as Travel Disruptions Mount
St Paul, MN – March 17, 2026 – A powerful winter storm batters the capital city, prompts emergency measures and snarls travel across the metro.
A late-season winter storm is gripping St. Paul and much of the Upper Midwest, bringing heavy snow, strong winds and dangerous travel conditions to the capital city.
State of Emergency in Effect
Minnesota leaders declared a peacetime emergency as the storm intensified over the weekend. The order allows state agencies and the National Guard to assist with storm response, road safety and potential rescue operations.
Forecasters warned that snowfall totals in the Twin Cities could reach well over a foot in some areas, with blowing snow reducing visibility and creating near-blizzard conditions at times.
Crashes and Road Closures
The Minnesota State Patrol reported more than 100 crashes statewide as of the weekend, including incidents involving injuries. Authorities are urging drivers in St. Paul to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.
City crews have been working extended shifts to plow arterial roads and residential streets. Residents are reminded to follow snow emergency parking rules to avoid tickets or towing.
Flights Canceled at MSP
Air travel has also been disrupted. Hundreds of flights at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport have been delayed or canceled as airlines respond to deteriorating runway conditions and regional weather impacts.
Travelers are encouraged to check directly with their airline before heading to the airport.
Power and Public Safety
Utilities across the region are preparing for possible outages as wind gusts increase and snow weighs down tree branches and power lines. Crews are on standby to respond to service interruptions.
City officials continue to stress caution, asking residents to check on elderly neighbors and keep sidewalks clear to help emergency responders move safely through neighborhoods.
Conditions are expected to gradually improve as the system moves east, but cold temperatures and slick roads may linger through midweek.
Sources
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_13%E2%80%9317%2C_2026_North_American_storm_complex
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_13%E2%80%9317%2C_2026_North_American_storm_complex
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_13%E2%80%9317%2C_2026_North_American_storm_complex
