St. Paul, Minnesota, is bracing for a prolonged period of snow removal as city officials have declared a snow emergency following a significant winter storm that blanketed the Twin Cities area with over seven inches of snow. The emergency, announced on Thursday, February 19, 2026, initiates a phased plowing operation designed to clear streets and ensure public safety. This marks the first snow emergency declared under the administration of Mayor Kaohly Her, who emphasized the require for proactive measures given recent fluctuating weather conditions.
The declaration comes after a storm that began on Wednesday delivered 7.6 inches of snow to Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport, the largest single snowfall of the season to date. The city’s Public Works department is preparing for a comprehensive, 96-hour plowing effort, beginning with designated “Night Plow Routes” and transitioning to “Day Plow Routes” on Friday. The snow emergency is scheduled to remain in effect until 9 p.m. On Monday, February 23, 2026, according to city officials.
Plowing Schedule and Parking Restrictions
The snow emergency is being implemented in two stages. Beginning at 9 p.m. On Thursday, February 19th, crews will focus on clearing Night Plow Routes. These routes encompass downtown St. Paul and all streets specifically marked with “NIGHT PLOW ROUTE” or “NIGHT PLOW ROUTE THIS SIDE OF STREET” signage. Vehicles remaining parked on these designated routes after 9 p.m. Will be subject to ticketing and towing. This is a critical component of the city’s strategy to ensure efficient snow removal during overnight hours.
The second phase commences at 8 a.m. On Friday, February 20th, with the plowing of Day Plow Routes. Unlike Night Plow Routes, Day Plow Routes are not explicitly marked with signage. City officials have clarified that any street *without* “Night Plow” signage within a block should be considered a Day Plow Route. Similar to the night plowing operation, vehicles parked on Day Plow Routes after 8 a.m. On Friday will be ticketed and towed. This distinction is crucial for residents to understand to avoid penalties and facilitate the snow removal process.
Mayor Her stated, “After last night’s heavier-than-expected snowstorm, I am calling the first snow emergency of my administration. The ice ruts that plagued our streets for weeks just melted. I won’t risk relying on unpredictable spring weather to melt or meaningfully clear our streets, and I am confident our professional group of plow drivers, ticketing crews, and city staff will obtain the job done.”
Temporary Towing Ban Suspended
The implementation of the snow emergency also necessitates the temporary suspension of a previous towing ban enacted by Mayor Her on January 19, 2026. This earlier ban was intended to provide residents with a period of leniency regarding parking restrictions. However, the severity of the current snowfall and the need for effective snow removal have prompted the city to reinstate ticketing and towing enforcement. The suspension of the January 19th ban will remain in effect until Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
Impact on Residents and Commuters
The snow emergency is expected to significantly impact residents and commuters throughout St. Paul. Beyond the parking restrictions, residents are advised to exercise caution although traveling, allowing for extra time to reach their destinations. The city’s Public Works department is urging residents to avoid unnecessary travel during the plowing operations to allow crews to operate efficiently and safely. The extended duration of the emergency – 96 hours – underscores the scale of the snow removal task and the potential for continued disruptions.
The city’s website, stpaul.gov/departments/public-works/snow, serves as a central hub for information regarding the snow emergency, including detailed maps of Night Plow Routes, frequently asked questions, and real-time updates on plowing progress. Residents are encouraged to consult this resource for the most current information and guidance.
Understanding Night and Day Plow Routes
A key aspect of the snow emergency plan is the differentiation between Night and Day Plow Routes. Night Plow Routes, clearly identified by signage, prioritize the clearing of downtown streets and major thoroughfares during off-peak hours. This minimizes disruption to daytime traffic flow. Day Plow Routes, conversely, encompass all other streets not designated as Night Plow Routes. The absence of signage on Day Plow Routes requires residents to be particularly vigilant and ensure their vehicles are moved by 8 a.m. On Friday to avoid ticketing and towing.
The city’s approach reflects a strategic effort to balance the needs of residents and businesses with the imperative of maintaining safe and passable roadways throughout the winter season. The 96-hour duration of the emergency allows for a thorough and comprehensive clearing of snow, mitigating the risk of prolonged disruptions and hazardous conditions.
Previous Winter Weather in St. Paul
The current snow emergency follows a winter season that has already presented challenges for St. Paul residents. Prior to this recent storm, the city had been grappling with persistent ice ruts on many streets, a condition Mayor Her specifically referenced in her statement. The relatively mild temperatures experienced in the weeks leading up to the storm had contributed to the formation of these ruts, creating hazardous driving conditions. The recent snowfall, while substantial, is expected to cover and ultimately alleviate the issue of ice ruts, providing a cleaner slate for snow removal efforts.
The city’s Public Works department has been preparing for winter weather events throughout the season, stockpiling salt and sand, and ensuring that plowing equipment is in optimal working condition. The declaration of the snow emergency signals the activation of these preparations and a concerted effort to address the challenges posed by the recent snowfall.
Residents are reminded that the snow emergency is a collective effort, requiring cooperation and adherence to parking restrictions. By complying with the city’s guidelines, residents can contribute to a more efficient and effective snow removal process, ensuring the safety and accessibility of St. Paul’s streets for all.
The next update regarding the snow emergency is expected on Monday, February 23, 2026, at 9 p.m., when the emergency is scheduled to conclude. Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring the city’s website for any potential extensions or modifications to the plan. We invite readers to share their experiences and perspectives on the snow emergency in the comments section below.
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