Spring load restrictions begin

ST. PAUL — Winter load increases end today and spring load restrictions start Friday on highways in the south, southeast, metro and central frost zones, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation.

Road restriction maps showing locations of weight-restricted routes are listed at mndot.gov/loadlimits. Click on “Spring Load Restrictions” and then any of the mapping options.

Ending dates for spring load restrictions are variable and based on how weather is affecting roadway strength.

Flooding concerns growing

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Rain and melting snow have triggered flood warnings in some Upper Midwestern states while blizzard conditions are the primary concern in other states.

Many rivers around Wisconsin are expected to reach flood stage over the next few days as thunderstorms and showers melt away the snow. The National Weather Service posted a flood warning in the Eau Claire area and into southeastern Minnesota. A flood watch was issued for portions of east central, south central and southeast Wisconsin from Wednesday through Friday.

A strong storm packing wind gusts of 60 mph and a foot of snow is moving into South Dakota where a blizzard warning was posted. A similar warning for northeast North Dakota and northwest and west-central Minnesota was in effect today through Friday.