MnDOT launches new winter weather information system

ST. PAUL, MN – The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has announced a new way for travelers to get information about winter road conditions.

In August, MnDOT launched a new 511 traveler information web site, which can be found at www.511mn.org.

This winter, MnDOT is launching a new way to report winter road conditions as part of that site.

MnDOT Travel Information Coordinator Kelly Braunig explained that, in the past, winter road conditions were reported by counties only.

Now, MnDOT can report winter weather conditions on segments or stretches of roads (US routes, interstates, and state routes).

According to Braunig, MnDOT’s goal is to provide greater detail about particular stretches of highway.

The winter road reporting has been tested in southwestern Minnesota, and was given high marks for its user-friendly look and helpful content, Braunig said.

“Our goal is to get the public to check this site before they venture out onto the roadways,” Braunig said. “We offer this as a tool for the public, in the same vein as checking the weather radar or listening to the radio to find roadway information, or if any travel advisories are issued.”