ATTENTION: Sheriff's announcement

Stearns County Sheriff John L. Sanner is advising no travel in Stearns County due to deep snow drifts, high winds and blowing snow with white out conditions.  Minnesota State Highways 15, 4 and 71 are closed in areas due to snow drifts 5-6 feet in depth.  Snow and blowing snow are making for complete white out conditions in open areas.  Emergency responders are limited by the road conditions, which could result in response delays should a motorist become stranded. 

No travel is advised until snow removal crews have cleared the roadways and the conditions improve.

Motorists driving on closed roads can face fines of up to $1,000 and/or 90 days in jail. In addition, if a driver needs to be rescued after crossing a barricade illegally, the state will charge for the emergency help and will also add other penalties.