ST. PAUL, MN – Governor Tim Walz tonight declared a peacetime state of emergency, and ordered the Minnesota National Guard to provide assistance and emergency relief services for stranded motorists in Renville County.

Heavy snow and strong winds have stranded motorists in Renville County and continued storm conditions are expected to create dangerous conditions for people traveling through the area. The Minnesota National Guard will assist with search and rescue operations and has opened the Olivia Armory as a shelter.