Otter Tail County (trfnews.i234.me) – Winter weather continues to cause problems on Interstate 94 near Fergus Falls on this Sunday evening. Several crashes on the westbound I-94 have led to congestion and delays in the area.
According to the Minnesota State Patrol, troopers remain on scene west of Fergus Falls. As of around 5:15 p.m., crashes on the westbound I-94 were still causing slow traffic and backups. Drivers are being urged to use extra caution and expect possible detours or delays.
The State Patrol also released updated statewide crash numbers for Sunday, November 30. From 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., troopers responded to 60 crashes across Minnesota. Six of those crashes involved injuries.
During that same period, there were 54 additional vehicles that spun out or ran off the road and required trooper or tow assistance. Troopers also reported one jackknifed semi on Minnesota highways Sunday afternoon.
These numbers are in addition to earlier weekend totals. From Saturday through 10:00 a.m. On Sunday, the State Patrol previously reported 139 crashes statewide. At least nine of those crashes involved non-life-threatening injuries. Troopers also handled 161 vehicles that spun out or slid off the road and four jackknifed semis during that earlier period.
Officials say snow and ice remain a major factor in many of the crashes. Even when roads look clear, shaded areas, bridges, and overpasses can stay slick. Drivers are reminded that posted speed limits may be too fast for current conditions.
The State Patrol urges drivers to slow down, increase following distance, and leave extra time for travel. They also remind motorists to move over for emergency vehicles and snowplows working along the roadside.
Drivers can check real-time road and crash information at Minnesota’s 511 site, 511mn.org. The site shows crashes, spinouts, closures, and winter road conditions across the state.
MnDOT offers more winter driving tips at dot.state.mn.us/winter, including how to share the road with plows. The Minnesota Department of Public Safety posts additional safety advice at dps.mn.gov.
Officials say the safest choice during severe winter weather is often to delay travel if possible. If you must drive, buckle up, slow down, and stay alert for changing conditions.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.
