Cook County Highway Department issues travel advisory issued for Cook County
Mar 06, 2026 03:18PM ● By Content Editor
Photo: max fuchs on Unsplash.com
By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - March 6, 2026
The Cook County Highway Department has issued a travel advisory after reports that recent warm weather and precipitation on top of snow-packed gravel roads have led to widespread slick spots. Additionally, temperatures are forecast to fall, and officials anticipate that ice will begin to form on asphalt surfaces, further complicating travel.
Cook County Highway Maintenance Superintendent Matt Nesheim shared that while crews are active, "options are limited," and said that "forecasted freezing temps overnight may make conditions worse." Nesheim further cautioned that road conditions may continue to deteriorate as the evening progresses, though maintenance teams are expected to continue monitoring and treating roads through Saturday morning.
The National Weather Service has issued a weather advisory effective until 3:00 a.m. on Saturday, specifically for all of North Central and Northeast Minnesota. A Dense Fog Advisory remains in place for zones along the North Shore through 9 p.m. tonight. A flash freeze is also possible. By Laura Durenberger-Grunow - Boreal Community Media - March 6, 2026
The Cook County Highway Department has issued a travel advisory after reports that recent warm weather and precipitation on top of snow-packed gravel roads have led to widespread slick spots. Additionally, temperatures are forecast to fall, and officials anticipate that ice will begin to form on asphalt surfaces, further complicating travel.
Cook County Highway Maintenance Superintendent Matt Nesheim shared that while crews are active, "options are limited," and said that "forecasted freezing temps overnight may make conditions worse." Nesheim further cautioned that road conditions may continue to deteriorate as the evening progresses, though maintenance teams are expected to continue monitoring and treating roads through Saturday morning.
A mix of precipitation is expected to result in snow accumulations of up to one inch, accompanied by a light glaze of ice. Bridges and overpasses are likely to become slick and hazardous.
Drivers are urged to take extra precautions, reduce speeds, and allow for increased following distances to account for the slippery conditions.
For the most up-to-date road conditions, visit 511mn.org.Editor's note: This article has been updated to reflect the expansion of the winter weather advisory and inclusion of a flash freeze possibility.
