Gusty Winds Follow Heavy Snow in Rochester

Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - The main brunt of today's winter storm was felt in Wisconsin but southeastern Minnesota was also hit pretty hard.

The most recent snowfall reports to the National Weather Service indicate over 17-inches of snow has been recorded in the Tomah area east of La Crosse. 13.8-inches was reported in Spring Grove and about a foot was reported near Winona and Lewiston, while there have been reports of over 10 inches of new snow near Caledonia and Houston. Closer to Rochester, 9 inches of new snow was reported in Chatfield, 8.5 inches fell in Kasson and most parts of Rochester have seen around 6 to 8 inches of accumulation since last night. The unofficial storm total at the Rochester Airport is 8.2-inches, which includes 6.8 inches today. The previous record for February 12 in Rochester was only 2-inches.

The winter storm warning for the Rochester area continues until midnight. While the snow is coming to an end, the National Weather Service says winds gusting well over 30 mph this evening could result in significant blowing and drifting snow in open areas. Travel conditions have been difficult all day with roads throughout southeastern Minnesota still completely covered by snow and ice.