Snow Removal Operations Continue

March 16, 2026 - ROCHESTER, MINN. - City crews continue full snow-removal operations today after the Rochester area received more than a foot of snow accompanied by ongoing blizzard conditions and high winds. Travel across the city remains difficult and residents are encouraged to limit driving unless absolutely necessary.

Many residential streets are still in challenging condition, with most neighborhoods having received only one plow pass so far. With the area remaining under a Blizzard Warning until 7 a.m., cleanup efforts in residential areas will take time.

Downtown streets are also heavily impacted. Many streets are currently reduced to a single lane in each direction due to large windrows. Crews will begin windrow cleanup downtown tonight; however, the process will take time due to the volume of snow. Parking restrictions will remain in place daily from midnight to 8 a.m. until the snow is removed and signs are taken down.

Drivers should also be aware that the current temperatures and high winds have rendered salt treatments largely ineffective, and extremely slick conditions are likely to persist.

Additionally, 65 Street NW remains closed from Freedom Ave NW to 60 Avenue NW.

The City appreciates the community's patience as crews work around the clock to restore safe travel conditions.