Major March Snowstorm Hits Minnesota, Prompting National Guard Deployment

Travel disruptions, business closures, and emergency measures as the state braces for over a foot of snow and dangerous conditions.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 11:15am

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A vast, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of gray, white, and blue, depicting the city of Minneapolis shrouded in a heavy snowstorm, with the urban skyline barely visible through the swirling, dramatic clouds and blinding white expanse.As a powerful March snowstorm blankets Minnesota, the state's emergency response underscores the growing challenges of extreme weather events.Minneapolis Today

A powerful March snowstorm is causing major disruptions across Minnesota, with over a foot of snow expected in many areas and wind gusts up to 50 mph creating whiteout conditions. The storm has prompted the governor to authorize the National Guard to assist in emergency operations, while travel has been severely impacted with hundreds of flights canceled at the Minneapolis-St. Paul airport and numerous businesses and cultural institutions forced to close. Authorities are urging residents to take precautions and have emergency kits ready as the state deals with the significant winter weather event.

Why it matters

This snowstorm highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events that communities must be prepared to manage. The deployment of the National Guard and the proactive measures taken by local officials demonstrate the importance of emergency planning and coordination to protect public safety during such disruptive weather conditions.

The details

The storm is expected to dump over a foot of snow in many areas of Minnesota, with wind gusts reaching 30-50 mph creating dangerous whiteout conditions. This has led to the cancellation of over 600 flights at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, as well as the closure of several Twin Cities businesses, cultural institutions, and the Como Park Zoo & Conservatory. A multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 35 has also underscored the hazardous driving conditions.

  • The snowstorm is expected to hit Minnesota on April 11, 2026.
  • Governor Tim Walz has signed an executive order authorizing the Minnesota National Guard to support emergency operations.
  • The National Guard has activated four armories in the south and metro areas to provide specialized vehicles and support.

The players

Tim Walz

The Governor of Minnesota who has authorized the National Guard deployment in response to the snowstorm.

Minnesota National Guard

The state's military force that has been activated to assist in emergency operations and provide specialized vehicles to respond to the severe weather conditions.

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What they’re saying

“We must be prepared for the unexpected and take all necessary precautions to ensure the safety of our residents during this extreme weather event.”

— Tim Walz, Governor of Minnesota

“The National Guard's specialized equipment and personnel will be crucial in responding to any emergencies or disruptions caused by the snowstorm.”

— Maj. Gen. Shawn Manke, Adjutant General of the Minnesota National Guard

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This major March snowstorm in Minnesota serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust emergency planning and community preparedness to address the growing challenges posed by extreme weather events. The coordinated response from state and local authorities, including the deployment of the National Guard, underscores the importance of having the right resources and strategies in place to protect public safety and minimize disruptions during such disruptive weather conditions.