Slick Morning Commute as Light Snow and Arctic Cold Arrive in Minneapolis

Morning Commute Overview

Minneapolis commuters should prepare for a challenging drive this Wednesday, January 21, 2026, as a combination of light snow and plummeting temperatures impacts the metro area. While snow accumulations are expected to remain light, the timing coincides with the morning rush, creating slick spots on major highways and local thoroughfares. Local traffic authorities are urging drivers to reduce speeds and allow for extra following distance as the region braces for an incoming wave of arctic air later today.

Major Highway Impacts and Construction

Despite the winter season, several major infrastructure projects continue to affect traffic flow around the city. On the I-394 and I-94 corridor, the ongoing multi-year bridge and ramp repair project is currently in its winter phase. A notable relief for commuters today is that the E-ZPass lanes between downtown Minneapolis and Highway 100 remain open to all traffic, as they were temporarily reinstated for the winter months. However, the Penn Avenue bridge over I-394 remains a focus of long-term work, with local detours in place.

• I-94 Westbound: The entrance ramp from 12th Street and Wabasha Street remains closed. This closure is scheduled to continue through April 2026, forcing drivers to find alternative routes into the westbound lanes from the downtown area.
• I-494 South Metro: Construction continues between Eagan and Richfield. Commuters traveling toward the airport or the Mall of America should expect lane shifts and reduced speed limits through the 24th Avenue South stretch.
• St. Paul Connections: For those heading east, bridge work near the John Ireland Boulevard area continues to cause nightly and periodic lane restrictions on I-94 and I-35E, which may cause residual backup during the early morning hours.

Metro Transit and Public Transportation

Metro Transit has issued a winter weather alert for all bus and light rail passengers. While most lines are running on schedule, the light snow may cause minor delays for bus routes. Commuters should take note of the recently launched Route 827, which began service earlier this month. This route provides new, frequent connections between Anoka and downtown Minneapolis, serving as a reliable alternative for those looking to avoid the slippery highways.

Additionally, passengers using the I-35W and Lake Street Station should be aware that the southeast tower elevators are currently unavailable due to mechanical issues. Those requiring elevator access are advised to use alternate entrances or allow extra time to navigate the station. Maintenance crews are also addressing escalator outages at the Lake Street/Midtown Blue Line station.

Safety Reminders

As arctic temperatures are forecasted to drop below zero tonight, MnDOT crews will be active throughout the day treating high-traffic bridges and intersections. Pedestrians and cyclists should also exercise caution on sidewalks, as the light dusting of snow may hide patches of black ice. For those using public transit, Metro Transit is keeping stations open as warming centers where possible as the deep freeze begins.