Drivers in west central Minnesota hampered by black ice, reduced visibilities

WILLMAR -- The National Weather Service this afternoon has issued a special weather statement regarding the strong cold front moving across the region. The front has generated gusty northwest winds to 35 mph at times across west central Minnesota.

Blowing and drifting snow is reducing visibilities to below one mile at times, especially in open country. Road conditions have deteriorated.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation's Traffic and Road Conditions website reports difficult driving conditions this afternoon across southwest and west central Minnesota. Blowing and drifting snow are creating slippery conditions. Black ice is reported in some areas.

The Weather Service says the strong winds will gradually decrease through the rest of the afternoon and early evening, though cool temperatures and light winds are forecast to continue Wednesday.

The forecast Wednesday for Willmar is a high near 11 degrees, but wind chill values of 15 below zero to 25 below zero. There is a slight chance of snow after midnight Wednesday and a forecast low of 6 degrees.