Minneapolis declares Snow Emergency

Minneapolis has declared a Snow Emergency beginning at 9 pm today, March 5.

Avoid a ticket or tow- follow Snow Emergency parking rules

We aim to provide open, drivable streets by plowing and clearing snow. To do this, we need residents to help us by following snow emergency parking rules. These rules help plows in clearing the streets so emergency vehicles and other traffic can get around and park. Plowing requires vehicles parked on streets to move. It’s in everyone’s best interest to do their part so plows can do the best job possible, and people can avoid a ticket and tow.

Parking rules last for three days after a Snow Emergency is declared: 

• 9 p.m. tonight, March 5th to 8 a.m. Thursday, March 6th (Day 1) Do not park on EITHER side of a Snow Emergency route until 8 a.m., or the street is fully plowed. 

• 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 6th (Day 2)  Do not park on the EVEN numbered side of a non-Snow Emergency route until 8 p.m., or that side of the street is fully plowed, or on EITHER side of a parkway until 8 p.m., or the parkway is fully plowed. 

• 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, March 7th (Day 3)  Do not park on the ODD numbered side of a non-Snow Emergency route until 8 p.m., or that side of the street is fully plowed. 

A map of which streets are Snow Emergency routes can be found on the city’s website.

Shovel your sidewalks

Sidewalks are a critical part of our city’s transportation system, and they should be open for everyone. That’s why Minneapolis ordinance requires property owners to clear sidewalks within 24 hours after a snowfall for houses and duplexes, and four daytime hours for all other properties. Failure to shovel your walk could lead to a bill to pay for the cost of crews shoveling it. The City also provides free sand to residents at several locations. After you clear your sidewalks, spreading sand helps to provide traction. It also helps hard-packed snow or ice melt faster. Learn more on the City’s website.

Power outages and safety

Report an outage or get updates 

Customers can help Xcel Energy get a jump on power restoration by reporting outages. To report an outage:

• Use the Xcel Energy mobile app  
• Visit www.xcelenergy.com/out  
• Call 1-800-895-1999 and follow the automated prompts

Customers can also access the most recent updates about an outage using the mobile app or by visiting the Outage Map, which displays the number of customers out and the anticipated restoration time if available.

Prepare and stay safe

• Stay away from downed or sagging power lines. Always assume an electric line, even one on the ground, is energized and dangerous. Never touch or move a downed power line; instead, leave the area and report it immediately by calling 1-800-895-1999.
• Build a home emergency kit to use in the event of a power outage, with items such as:
• Xcel Energy phone numbers: 1-800-895-1999 for residential or 1-800-481-4700 for business
• Battery-powered radio or television
• Flashlights
• Batteries
• Backup phone chargers
• A phone that does not require electricity
• Non-electric alarm clock
• Bottled water and nonperishable food
• Manual can opener
• First aid kit
• Extension cords (for partial outages)
• Manufacturer's instructions on how to manually open power-operated doors (e.g., garage doors)

Find more energy savings tips or learn about the programs, incentives and rebates available when making energy efficiency upgrades to homes and businesses. Xcel Energy encourages customers who are having trouble paying their energy bills to reach out to learn about payment plans or energy assistance programs.