Icy Roads Cause Jackknifed Semis, Spinouts in Clay County

Minnesota State Patrol responds to multiple weather-related incidents on I-94

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Heavy rain and snow in northwest Minnesota have led to dangerous road conditions, with the State Patrol reporting jackknifed semi-trucks and vehicles spinning out and leaving the roadway near Barnesville and Moorhead on Interstate 94. Sergeant Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol said the icy roads are particularly treacherous for empty or lightly loaded trailers.

Why it matters

Inclement winter weather can pose serious risks to drivers, especially commercial vehicles, on major highways like I-94 in northwest Minnesota. The State Patrol's response highlights the need for caution and preparedness when driving in these conditions to prevent accidents and keep roads clear.

The details

On the morning of February 18, 2026, Sergeant Jesse Grabow of the Minnesota State Patrol responded to a jackknifed semi-truck on I-94 near Barnesville, as well as several other vehicles that had spun out and left the roadway near Moorhead. Grabow said the rain that had turned to ice and sleet was making the roads extremely slippery, posing particular challenges for empty or lightly loaded trailers.

  • At 8:30 AM on February 18, 2026, Grabow responded to a jackknifed semi on I-94 near Barnesville.
  • Around 8 AM on February 18, 2026, Grabow responded to several vehicles that had spun out and left the roadway near Moorhead on I-94.

The players

Sgt. Jesse Grabow

A Minnesota State Patrol sergeant who responded to multiple weather-related incidents on I-94 in northwest Minnesota.

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What they’re saying

“WC & NW MN – icy roads are making it difficult for the empty/lightly loaded trailers.”

— Sgt. Jesse Grabow, Minnesota State Patrol Sergeant (Twitter)

What’s next

The Minnesota Department of Transportation will continue to monitor road conditions and work to clear and treat the roads as the winter storm continues.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the importance of driving cautiously and being prepared for winter weather conditions, especially for commercial vehicles, to prevent accidents and keep roads safe for all travelers.