Minnesota Governor Tim Walz authorized the activation of the Minnesota National Guard on Friday, March 14, 2026, in preparation for a significant winter storm expected to impact the state over the weekend. The governor's office stated the move was a precautionary step to ensure resources were available for emergency response.
The National Weather Service issued winter storm warnings and watches for much of southern and central Minnesota, forecasting heavy, wet snow and strong winds. Forecasts predicted the potential for over a foot of snow in some areas, with hazardous travel conditions due to low visibility and snow-covered roads.
"Despite recent spring weather, Minnesotans know that a March snowstorm is never out of the question," Governor Walz said in a verified statement. State officials urged residents to avoid non-essential travel in affected regions, check road conditions, and prepare for potential power outages.
The storm system, moving across the Plains, was expected to bring the heaviest snowfall from late Saturday through Sunday. The Minnesota Department of Transportation reported numerous road closures and 'no travel advised' alerts for counties in the storm's path as conditions deteriorated.
