Blizzard — Olmsted, Minnesota

2002-03-09 · Olmsted, Minnesota

Wider weather episode

As a deep low pressure moved into the northern Great Lakes, it produced west winds of 30 to 40 mph, with gusts around 50 mph. Even though only an inch or less of new snow had fallen, the very strong winds produced whiteout conditions, with visibility 1/4 mile or less. The poor visibility combined with falling temperatures caused numerous accidents, one of which resulted in a fatality near Byron (Olmsted County), when a vehicle rolled over. Some highways were closed due to the strong winds and icy roads, including a portion of Interstate 90 near Rochester.

Source: NOAA Storm Events Database, event_id 5280614. Narrative written by the NWS forecast office that issued the report.