Thanksgiving Day 2025 in the U.S. Walmart, Kroger, Costco, Target,  open

Why “What’s Open on Thanksgiving” Matters Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. is more than just a meal — it triggers a huge rush of people preparing food, last-minute shopping, household planning, and travel. Many retailers and grocery chains adjust their hours, or close entirely, to give employees the holiday off. For people who still need to get groceries, medicines, or basic supplies — sometimes at the last minute — knowing which stores are open is very helpful. In 2025 this issue is especially important because many large “big-box” retailers are closing on Thanksgiving, reflecting a trend over recent years where stores shut on the holiday rather than open — a shift from past decades when many would stay open to begin holiday sales early.   

Which Major Stores Are Closed on Thanksgiving 2025 Here are some of the big-name retailers that will not be open on Thanksgiving Day this year.  Walmart — The retailer has confirmed it will remain closed on Thanksgiving 2025.  Target — Also closed for Thanksgiving Day; reopened for Black Friday.  Costco — Closed on Thanksgiving.  Home-improvement and many big-box stores such as The Home Depot and Lowe's are closing on Thanksgiving 2025.  Other department-store chains and large non-grocery retailers (electronics, clothing, etc.) are also staying closed on Thanksgiving.  

The idea seems to be to give employees a holiday and to shift major sales to the next day, Black Friday.   

Grocery Stores & Chains Open on Thanksgiving Day 2025 (or With Modified Hours) Even though many big-boxes and superstores are closed, several grocery chains and food-driven stores remain open — often with reduced or shortened hours. These are likely your best bet if you need food, drinks, or last-minute Thanksgiving supplies.  Here are some chains likely to be open on Thanksgiving 2025: Kroger (and its family of supermarkets) — Stores will be open but will close early (many by mid-afternoon or around 4–5 p.m.).  Safeway — Expected to be open with typical grocery-store hours (but pharmacies inside may be closed or limited).  Food Lion — Many locations open, though hours vary; some may close mid-afternoon.  Whole Foods — Most stores open, often with shorter hours (e.g. many from ~7 a.m. to 1 p.m.).  Other food-centric or smaller/grocery-focused chains such as Albertsons, Sprouts Farmers Market, and similar stores — many are listed as open with reduced hours.  

In general, most grocery stores that remain open tend to close earlier than usual — often mid-afternoon — so morning or early-day shopping is the safest bet.   

What That Means for Specific Stores / Chains 

You Asked About Here’s a breakdown of the likely status — open or closed — for many of the stores you asked about. Since these are nationwide chains, details may vary locally — always double-check! Store / Chain Status on Thanksgiving 2025* Walmart Closed. 

Kroger Open — but with early closing / reduced hours (many by afternoon). 

Whole Foods Open — usually with limited hours (e.g. 7 a.m. to ~1 p.m.). 

Costco Closed. 

Target Closed. 

Home Depot / Lowe’s Closed. 

Food Lion Open — many stores with limited hours; likely close by early/mid afternoon. 

Safeway Open — but with modified hours (varies by location). 

Other chains (Albertsons, Sprouts, discount grocery-type stores) Many are open with reduced hours or modified operations.  

*Note: “Open” doesn’t always mean “full regular hours.” Many stores reduce hours, close pharmacies, or limit services on Thanksgiving.  

What This Means for Holiday Shoppers in 2025 Given the mix of closures and limited hours, here are some practical takeaways if you plan to shop this Thanksgiving: Plan ahead: If you know you need ingredients, essentials, or groceries, try to shop before Thanksgiving Day — ideally a day or two in advance. Many big-box stores and superstores will be closed, and grocery-store hours will be shortened. Go early: For grocery chains that stay open (like Kroger, Whole Foods, Safeway, Food Lion), early morning or late morning is best. 

Stores often close by early afternoon. 

Check locally: Because hours vary by location, always use a store’s website or phone to confirm. Don’t assume national hours apply to your local branch. Expect limited services: Pharmacies inside grocers may be closed. Certain departments (e.g., bakery, deli, pharmacy) may have reduced services or be shuttered for the holiday. Don’t rely on big-box retail: If you wanted to shop for non-grocery items (electronics, clothing, home improvement, etc.), most of those big-box retailers are shutting for Thanksgiving — you’ll likely need to wait until Black Friday or shop online.   Why Many Stores Are Closing on Thanksgiving Over recent years, many large chains have shifted to closing on Thanksgiving rather than staying open. There are several reasons for this move: 1. Employee well-being: Thanksgiving is a major holiday, traditionally for family and rest. Closing stores gives many workers the day off.  

2. Shift of sales to Black Friday & online: Retailers increasingly prefer focusing on Black Friday — when customers expect big sales — rather than trying to drive sales on Thanksgiving itself.  

3. Public expectation & goodwill: Over time, consumers have come to accept that many stores will close on Thanksgiving. It can be good publicity for a store to show it “respects the holiday.” 

4. Logistics / staffing concerns: Keeping large stores open involves staffing, utilities, security, supply — on a day when many staff may prefer to stay home. For some companies, that doesn’t make business sense if sales would be low.   

Key Takeaways — At a Glance 

If you need groceries or last-minute supplies this Thanksgiving, your best bet is a grocery-store chain rather than a big-box retailer. Many grocery chains stay open, but hours are often shorter than normal — sometimes closing by early or mid afternoon. Major retailers like Walmart, Target, Costco, Home-Depot-type stores are closed on Thanksgiving 2025. Always double-check your local store’s opening hours just before you go. Plan early. If possible, buy your groceries ahead of time to avoid holiday-day stress.   What About Stores Near “Me”? — And What To Do If You Are Outside the U.S. Because store-open/closed status can vary by city, state, and even store location, what holds for one place may not hold for another. If you’re in a rural area, outside a major city, or live outside the U.S., hours may differ — or stores might not follow the standard U.S. holiday schedule at all.

Wave of Attacks by Donald J. Trump on Cnn News Female Journalists 

Trump, the Media, and Old Patterns For many years, Donald Trump has had a contentious relationship with the media. Critics say that he often uses personal insults — especially directed at female reporters — to evade difficult questions or to discredit reporting he dislikes.  Because of this history, each new insult raises concerns among journalists and free-press advocates about whether such behaviour undermines healthy public debate. Now, in late November 2025, the conflict between Trump and some female reporters has flared up again — and at the same time, new reporting has raised questions about Trump’s energy levels, his health, and whether he is adjusting to the “realities of aging in office.” 

 What Happened Most Recently “Piggy” on Air Force One On November 14, 2025 (US time), during a media session aboard Air Force One, a female reporter from Bloomberg News — identified in media reports as Catherine Lucey — asked Trump about files related to the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, particularly what Epstein meant when he wrote that Trump “knew about the girls” he allegedly recruited. According to video and media reports, Trump abruptly cut her off, leaned forward pointing at her, and said: “Quiet. Quiet, piggy.”  The insult shocked many. Some media figures reacted strongly: one anchor reportedly called it “disgusting and completely unacceptable.”  Some defended Trump’s behavior as bluntness or toughness, but many saw it as demeaning and sexist — part of a pattern.  “Ugly, Both Inside and Out” After Age-Report Less than two weeks later, on November 26, 2025, Trump launched another verbal attack — this time against a reporter from The New York Times (NYT). The reporter, Katie Rogers, co-authored a story titled “Shorter Days, Signs of Fatigue: Trump Faces Realities of Aging in Office.” That story raised questions about Trump’s schedule, public appearances, and possible signs of fatigue.  In a post on his social media platform (Truth Social), Trump called Katie Rogers “a third rate reporter who is ugly, both inside and out.” He denounced the NYT as a “cheap ‘rag’” and “enemy of the people.”  This insult followed the “piggy” remark — clearly part of a continuing pattern of targeting women journalists when their reporting is critical of him.  

 What the NYT Report Said about Trump’s Age, Health, and Energy The article by Katie Rogers and colleagues described a noticeable shift in Trump’s public schedule compared to his earlier times in office: According to their analysis, his public appearances and domestic travel have sharply reduced compared to his first term.  On average, most of his public engagements now happen between noon and 5 p.m., rather than earlier and more spread-out times.  On one occasion in early November, during a public event in the Oval Office, Trump appeared to doze off — his eyelids drooped until nearly closed, and for a few seconds he seemed drifting off while others spoke.  The article noted that, at 79, Trump is now the oldest person to have ever held the U.S. presidency.  

The Times indicated that these changes may reflect “realities of aging in office.”  Additionally, there has been public attention on his health: he recently underwent an MRI scan in October (the purpose unspecified), and photos have circulated showing swelling in his ankles and bruises on his hands. Some reports refer to a diagnosis of chronic venous insufficiency.  The reporting — thorough and based on his official public schedule — suggests that while Trump continues to maintain a strong public presence, the intensity and volume of his official engagements have visibly reduced compared to his earlier tenure. This has both media and members of the public wondering whether age and physical strain are catching up to him. 

 

Why Trump Reacted Harshly And What His Response Says 

The harsh insults seem directly connected to the reporting on his age and energy level. The tone of Trump's response suggests a strong sensitivity to criticism — especially when it involves his stamina or public image. In his message, Trump declared that he had “never worked so hard” in his life, insisted that the reports are wrong, and claimed to have recently passed a “perfect physical exam and a comprehensive cognitive test.”  Yet, despite these claims, the contrast between a past with numerous early-morning events, high energy rallies, and today’s toned-down schedule is visible. Whether this slowdown is due to a conscious pace adjustment, health-related constraints, or strategic political calculation, the fact remains: the public sees fewer high-energy performances from him than before. That difference in perception may be fueling Trump’s defensive — and personal — reaction toward the reporters raising these concerns. 

 Broader Reactions: Media, Public, and Democracy Backlash from Press and Media Advocates Journalists and free-press supporters have widely condemned Trump’s remarks. The insult “piggy” was called “disgusting” and “completely unacceptable.”  When he called Katie Rogers “ugly, inside and out,” newspapers defended their staff. A spokesperson from The New York Times said that “name-calling and personal insults don’t change that … our journalists will not hesitate to cover this administration in the face of intimidation tactics.”  For many, these repeated incidents are seen as not just rude or unprofessional — but emblematic of a larger problem: using personal degradation to silence critical journalism. Concerns About Age and Transparency The reporting about Trump’s aging, schedule cuts, and visible signs of fatigue has reignited a broader public discussion about the transparency and fitness of older leaders. Some experts and observers argue that the length and intensity of the presidential job — especially in turbulent times — demand high physical and mental stamina. If a leader shows signs of slowing down, it can raise fundamental questions about capacity and accountability. Others counter that aging does not automatically mean ineffectiveness; many older leaders remain sharp, and that age-related changes must be judged case-by-case. But in Trump’s case, the contrast between his prior high-energy persona and recent appearances, combined with his strong reaction to media scrutiny, has stoked public worry. 

The Risk to Press Freedom and Journalistic Integrity 

One of the deeper concerns is that when a powerful leader repeatedly uses personal insults — especially sexist insults — against journalists, it can create a chilling effect. Reporters may feel intimidated or reluctant to ask tough questions. Media outlets may self-censor or avoid certain topics to stay out of direct conflict. Over time, this can erode public trust and hinder the ability of the press to hold government accountable. Many media observers view Trump’s behaviour not just as personal misconduct, but as a challenge to the norms of respectful, independent journalism. 

 What It Means for Trump’s Presidency in Coming Months Putting everything together — the reporting on age and schedule, the public signs of fatigue, and Trump’s aggressive response — we might expect a few possible trajectories. Increased scrutiny and skepticism. As more Americans pay attention to his age and energy levels, opposition and independent media might press harder on health, capability, and transparency. The repeated insults may backfire, decreasing his support among moderate or undecided segments of the public. More defensive posture. Trump may continue to respond to criticism with harm to individuals (journalists), rather than addressing the substance of concerns. That could intensify polarization: supporters may view criticism as “fake news,” while critics may see it as evidence of declining capacity and authoritarian tendencies. Impact on media relations and public discourse. If journalists feel under threat or insult, their willingness to challenge the administration might erode. That could weaken oversight and reduce public access to unbiased, hard-hitting reporting — especially on sensitive issues like health, policy, and transparency. Shifts in internal political dynamics. Allies, advisers, and political commentators may internally gauge whether Trump’s health and stamina remain assets. If doubts grow, there could be pressure for delegation of duties or bringing in more visible surrogates for public appearances.   

The Bigger Picture Why Age, Media, and Respect Matter 

This episode is not just about one leader insulting some journalists, nor is it only about one article on fatigue. It reveals deeper tensions in democratic societies, especially around issues such as: The role and safety of the free press: A free press must be allowed to question and critique those in power — even if uncomfortable or damaging. Personal attacks on journalists threaten that fundamental role. Respect and civility in public office: Leaders hold power and influence. When they use cruel or sexist language, it undermines public norms and can embolden intolerance and disrespect in broader society. Transparency about health and age: For leaders at advanced age, open and honest dialogue about health, stamina, and capacity becomes important. The public has a stake in knowing whether those who govern remain fit to make decisions. Trust and legitimacy: When media attacks are met with insults instead of dialogue, it undermines trust — both in the leader and in institutions like newspapers and journalism. That can erode democratic legitimacy over time.   Conclusion The recent wave of insults from President Donald Trump toward female reporters — from calling one “piggy” aboard Air Force One to labeling another “ugly, both inside and out” after a story about his age and energy — is a stark example of how personal animosity and media criticism can collide. At the same time, serious questions have emerged about whether Trump, now 79, is facing real challenges as he ages — from reduced public schedule to visible signs of fatigue. The reporting, based on public-schedule data and direct observation, paints a picture of a president whose style and stamina may be evolving. What makes this moment particularly important is the broader message it sends: about press freedom, about respect for journalists, about transparency, and about what voters should expect from their leaders. If democracy depends on an informed public and a fearless press, then mutual respect — even between those in power and those who hold power to account — matters deeply. When that respect erodes, it is not just individual journalists who suffer, but the health of democratic discourse itself. 

Involving National Guard members in Washington, D.C. shooting

What happened: the DC shooting near the White House On Wednesday, November 26, 2025, two members of the U.S. National Guard were shot near the nation’s seat of power — just blocks away from The White House, at the intersection of 17th Street and I Street NW, near the Farragut West Metro station in downtown Washington, D.C.  Authorities said the shooting occurred around midafternoon, and quickly escalated into a major security and law-enforcement response: emergency services, police, federal agents — including the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the United States Secret Service — flooded the scene.  A suspect was taken into custody soon afterwards. According to official statements, the suspect was also wounded during the incident.  In response to the shooting, The White House and nearby government buildings briefly went into lockdown. Streets in the area were cordoned off and law enforcement urged people to avoid the region while they secured the scene.  It has been described by officials as a “targeted shooting,” not a random act of violence.   

Who was involved: National Guard, the suspect, and authorities The victims were two soldiers belonging to the National Guard. Reports indicate they were from West Virginia National Guard.  Their deployment to Washington, D.C. was part of a broader operation initiated earlier in 2025 — when the National Guard was sent to the capital for security operations, following a federal order to address rising crime and public safety concerns.  The suspect, whose identity has not yet been publicly disclosed (as of the latest reports), was apprehended at the scene. He was reportedly wounded during the confrontation, though his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening.  Multiple law-enforcement agencies — the Metropolitan Police Department of D.C., the FBI, the Secret Service, and other federal agencies — took part in the response and investigation.  

Public officials have described the incident as an assault on soldiers — a serious offense given the proximity to the White House and the presence of uniformed troops on duty.   

The condition of the victims and conflicting reports Initial reports from the governor of West Virginia, Patrick Morrisey, claimed that both National Guard members had died from their injuries.  However, moments later, his office issued a correction: they had received “conflicting reports” about the guardsmen’s condition.  By late Wednesday, federal and D.C. officials, including the FBI and city authorities, indicated that the two guardsmen were alive but in critical condition and hospitalized.  Three people in total — the two guardsmen and the suspect — were transported to hospital for treatment following the shooting.  As of the latest public updates, the motive for the shooting remains under investigation. Authorities have not confirmed whether it was politically motivated, a random act, or related to some other personal grievance.   

Wider context: Why were National Guard troops in DC? The presence of hundreds — at times over two thousand — National Guard troops in Washington, D.C. in 2025 has been controversial. Their deployment was ordered under what the administration called a “crime emergency” to assist local law enforcement amid growing concerns about crime, homelessness, and civil unrest in certain urban areas.  Since their arrival, the deployment has sparked a mixture of support and criticism: Supporters argue the Guard helps restore order and provides additional security in a volatile environment. Critics raise fears about militarization of domestic spaces, civil liberties, and the appropriateness of deploying armed troops in a largely civilian urban area. 

This shooting — happening while the troops were on active duty — only amplifies those concerns, highlighting the risks and heavy responsibility of such deployments. Some reports note that this deployment has been extended multiple times, even as legal challenges mount.   

Immediate consequences: 

Security, disruption, public response The shooting triggered immediate and wide-ranging responses across multiple fronts: Security lockdowns: The White House and surrounding governmental buildings were placed on temporary lockdown while the scene was secured. Nearby office buildings and businesses were also locked down as law-enforcement personnel swept the area.  Transport disruptions: Authorities temporarily paused flights to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport because of aircraft involved in the emergency response. The pause was short-lived, but it disrupted air travel — significant given that the shooting occurred the day before the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday, a peak travel period.  Heightened alert and media coverage: Federal agencies — including the FBI, Secret Service, and other homeland-security institutions — launched investigations, treating the incident as a national-security matter.  Political fallout and public reaction: Many leaders condemned the attack. The presence of National Guard soldiers in D.C. will likely come under renewed scrutiny, especially regarding their safety, rules of engagement, and the ethics of maintaining militarized security in peacetime urban areas.   Broader significance: what this tells us about the times This shooting is more than an isolated incident. It reflects — and may intensify — several underlying tensions and debates that have been building in Washington and across the United States over the past year. 1. The challenge of urban security and militarization

Deploying National Guard troops to a city like Washington — with a dense population, heavy civilian traffic, and high-profile political landmarks — was always a risky move. The presence of uniformed soldiers, military equipment, and potential for violent encounters creates a volatile mix. This incident underscores that deploying soldiers domestically — even for security or “crime prevention” — comes with real danger, both for troops and ordinary civilians. 2. Fragility of security even in high-protection zones

That such a shooting could occur just blocks from the White House — one of the most heavily guarded areas in the world — shows that even high-security zones are not immune to violence. It raises serious questions about gaps in protection and the vulnerabilities inherent in placing troops in civil patrol roles. 3. Fallout for policy and public trust

This event could reinvigorate debates over whether the National Guard should be used for domestic policing or public-safety duties. Legal, ethical, and political arguments will likely intensify around the appropriateness of using military forces on domestic soil for extended periods. At the same time, for citizens and tourists, incidents like this risk eroding the sense of safety many expect in a country’s capital. 4. Potential escalation of scrutiny and oversight

Given that the shooting is being treated as a “targeted attack,” investigations will likely probe motives, background of the shooter, whether there was any planning, and whether existing protocols for troop deployment and civilian proximity need revision. Depending on findings, this might lead to tighter restrictions on Guard deployments, increased security measures, or changes to how such troops are used in urban contexts.  

What we still don’t know — and what to watch for While much has already been reported, several critical questions remain unanswered: What was the motive? As of now, authorities have not released a motive. Was the shooter targeting the soldiers specifically? Was it random, or connected to politics, ideology, or personal grievances? Investigation is ongoing.  Who is the shooter? The identity has not been publicly disclosed. It’s not yet clear whether the shooter acted alone or was part of a larger plot.  

What is the exact condition of the guard members?

Early reports were contradictory: from claims of fatalities to “conflicting reports.” As of now, they are described as critically wounded. Their long-term prognosis, and whether both recover, remains unknown.  Will the Guard presence in DC change? Given the risks exposed by this attack, authorities may re-evaluate whether and how to keep troops deployed in civilian urban areas. There may be changes in policy, oversight, or engagement rules. Broader security implications for DC and other cities. If this is more than an isolated incident — for instance, part of an organized or ideological attack — it could trigger nationwide alerts, changes in how cities police, and reevaluations for other Guard deployments.   A short background on the National Guard and its deployment in D.C. To better understand the significance of this shooting, it helps to know a bit about the National Guard and why its deployment in Washington is controversial. The National Guard is a reserve military force that typically serves under state authority, but can be activated for federal service. It is used for a variety of purposes — from disaster response to support for law enforcement in emergencies. In August 2025, the U.S. administration ordered the deployment of hundreds of National Guard troops in Washington, D.C., citing rising crime, homelessness, and public disorder as justification. Many of these soldiers came from states including West Virginia, Louisiana, Ohio, Georgia, and others.  This deployment raised concerns among civil-liberties advocates, local government officials, and segments of the public, who warned that such militarization of domestic law enforcement could blur lines between civil policing and military occupation. Still, the deployment continued — making Washington a city policed in part by uniformed soldiers. The presence of the Guard in civilian areas — patrolling streets, standing guard near public buildings, metro stations and iconic landmarks — meant that ordinary urban life coexisted with military oversight. For many, that was always unsettling; for proponents, it offered a sense of security. The shooting shows how tenuous that balance can be.  

Why this incident matters beyond just one day’s headlines This shooting — and the fact that it happened so close to the White House — carries implications far beyond the immediate victims. 1. It’s a wake-up call about domestic security vulnerabilities. Even the most secure parts of a capital are not immune to sudden violence. That has implications for security protocols, surveillance, and emergency response readiness. 

2. It may shape future policy on the use of the military domestically. Governments that deploy soldiers for law enforcement or public safety will likely face increased pressure to justify such decisions, and to ensure safeguards for both civilians and service members. 

3. It raises moral and civic questions. Should soldiers — trained for war or national defense — be used for local policing or security? What happens when they become targets? Does deploying them erode civil-military boundaries that protect democratic order? 

4. It affects public confidence. For residents, workers, tourists in the capital, such incidents shake the sense of safety. For the Guard and law enforcement, it underscores the dangers they face — which may affect recruitment, morale, and public perception. 

5. It may influence international perceptions. As a symbol of U.S. governance and stability, violence near the White House can carry symbolic weight abroad, affecting how other countries view American domestic security.   

What we can expect next & what to watch

A full investigation: Federal, local, and homeland security agencies will probe motives, background of suspect, and whether the incident is isolated or part of a larger pattern. Public and political debate: Expect heated discussions in the media, Congress, and policy-making circles over the presence of National Guard troops in cities, use of military force in civilian settings, and civil-military boundaries. Possible policy changes: Based on investigation results and public sentiment, there may be revisions to rules governing domestic deployment of military forces, engagement protocols, or increased security around sensitive zones. Monitoring of troop morale and deployments: The National Guard, its home-state leadership, and federal authorities may reassess whether and how to continue deployments — not just in D.C., but elsewhere if similar calls arise. Impact on public safety and perception: Residents, visitors, and businesses in D.C. may adjust behavior; government may implement stricter measures around metro stations, tourist spots, and high-risk areas.    The November 26, 2025 shooting of two National Guard soldiers near the White House — in the heart of Washington, D.C. — is a sobering reminder that even in the most secure spaces, violence can occur. More than a tragic incident, it poses difficult questions about the role of military forces in domestic law enforcement, the safety of uniformed personnel on domestic duty, and the fragile nature of security in urban centers. As investigations proceed and public debate unfolds, the events of this day will likely shape how America thinks about balance — between security and civil life; between protection and freedom; between military force and democratic norms. At the same time, the incident calls for solidarity, compassion, and careful reflection — for the victims, their families, the communities affected, and for all who expect safety and trust in institutions.

Understanding Road Conditions in Minnesota

Travel across Minnesota can be beautiful, but it also poses many challenges — especially in winter or during severe weather. That’s why reliable, up-to-date information on road conditions is critical for safe driving. Here’s how road conditions are managed and communicated in MN.

Who monitors roads and how updates are shared

·        MnDOT is the main authority responsible for monitoring and managing roads across Minnesota. This includes highways, rest areas, and statewide travel infrastructure.

·        To help drivers, MnDOT maintains a service known as 511 Traveler Info / 511mn.org. Through this, travelers can access real-time information: traffic incidents, closures, construction, plow operations, weather alerts, and traffic camera views.

·        For local — especially urban/suburban — traffic and road-condition updates, media outlets such as KARE 11 also play a big role. Their “Traffic” section covers incidents, closures, winter-weather hazards, and alerts.

What kinds of conditions and hazards are covered

Road conditions in MN can vary widely depending on weather, time of year, and ongoing road work. Key hazards and conditions include:

·        Snow, ice, slush, and winter-storm conditions: Minnesota winters often bring heavy snow or freezing rain, which can make roads slick, reduce visibility, and increase crash risk.

·        Closures and detours: Heavy storms sometimes force partial or complete closures of highways and major routes. Construction or maintenance — like bridge repair — also causes scheduled closures.

·        Poor visibility / white-out conditions: With heavy snow or blowing winds, visibility can drop dramatically — a major hazard especially for intercity or rural travel.

·        Ongoing maintenance or construction: Regular maintenance or repair work (bridges, roads) may require closures or lane restrictions.

Recent examples / reminders to drivers

·        A recent snow/slush condition in western Minnesota led to a semi-truck pile-up near Moorhead, Minnesota, highlighting how dangerous road conditions can become.

·        Drivers are often reminded to check 511mn.org or call “511” for statewide road and weather updates before traveling — especially in winter, when conditions can change fast.

·        In metro areas (like around the Twin Cities), closures and detours — whether due to weather or infrastructure projects — can cause major delays. Checking traffic and construction updates ahead of time helps avoid being caught off-guard.

Why this matters: Safety, planning, and flexibility

Given the unpredictability of MN weather, good roads information helps in multiple ways:

·        Prioritizing safety: Drivers can avoid dangerously icy roads or closures. In winter, avoiding travel or preparing better (snow tires, slower speeds) can prevent accidents.

·        Planning travel: For long trips, or commuting, knowing closures or detours in advance helps pick safer or faster routes.

·        Flexibility: People — including school districts — may need to delay or cancel travel depending on road/weather conditions. That’s why MN’s system for road-condition communication is so important.

 

School Closings in Minnesota: How Weather & Roads Affect Education

In Minnesota, school closings and delays are often tied directly to road conditions and weather. Here is how school cancellations are handled — and how residents are kept informed.

What triggers a school closure or delay

School districts consider a number of safety factors when deciding whether to cancel classes or delay start times:

·        Road conditions: If roads are icy, snow-covered, or otherwise unsafe, buses and student transportation may be disrupted. Districts must confirm that bus routes can safely operate before opening schools.

·        Weather severity: Extreme cold, heavy snowfall, or wind chill may make travel dangerous, especially for younger students. Superintendents often consult local weather forecasts and services (like the National Weather Service) before deciding.

·        Visibility and safety at pick-up/drop-off: Even if roads are passable, if visibility is poor or sidewalks/paths are unshoveled, there may be safety risks for children walking to bus stops.

·        Other emergencies: Sometimes closures are not due to weather, but to other issues — like broken water mains, power outages, or infrastructure problems — though these are less common.

Who decides and how families are notified

·        The decision to close or delay school is typically made by the district superintendent (or their designee), often after consulting transportation staff, neighboring districts, city officials, and weather services.

·        Notifications are sent out via multiple channels — phone calls, texts or emails to registered families, posts on school or district websites, and postings on local media (including TV and radio).

·        Media outlets like KARE 11 often publish lists of school closings, delays, or cancellations for metro and Greater Minnesota areas.

·        If a parent or guardian believes conditions are unsafe even when school is not officially canceled, they may keep their child home; often this counts as an excused weather-related absence.

Limitations — and why it’s not always predictable

Decisions are often made early in the morning (or sometimes the night before), but weather can change quickly. That means:

·        A school might remain open, yet by afternoon there may be snow or other hazards.

·        Districts try to avoid unnecessary cancellations, because missed school days impact learning. So they balance safety against educational commitments.

·        In some districts, if closures go beyond a certain number of days, classes may shift to online or “e-learning” formats — though this depends on infrastructure and planning.

Thus, families and students who rely on buses or travel through vulnerable areas need to stay alert, and keep an eye on media updates and district-level alerts, especially during winter or storms.

 

Weather and Traffic Reporting: Role of KARE 11 & Other Media, What They Provide

In Minnesota, media organizations like KARE 11 — together with official sources like MnDOT — play a critical role in relaying weather, road, and school-closing updates to public. Here’s how that works and why it matters.

What KARE 11 provides

·        Regular weather forecasts and alerts, including warnings for snow, ice, storms, wind chill, or mixed precipitation. Their “Weather” section flags when conditions are likely to impact travel or daily life.

·        Live updates on road and traffic conditions, including accidents, closures, detours, winter hazards, and construction zones — often with maps or links to real-time traffic services.

·        Lists of school closings or delays when weather or road conditions make travel unsafe for students.

·        Emergency communications — for example, when a major snowstorm or winter event triggers a “Weather Impact Alert” or similar directive.

Why media coverage matters — complementing official sources

·        Speed and reach: Not everyone checks MnDOT or 511mn.org constantly. Media outlets like KARE 11 help push alerts out quickly to many households.

·        Context and clarity: Journalists often interpret data — telling which roads are worst, when storms may hit, and offering practical travel advice. That helps in understanding whether it's safe to commute, travel, or send kids to school.

·        Local detail: For people in metro areas or suburbs, local outlets provide more granular detail — covering closures, detours, or incidents that official statewide services might not highlight immediately.

Examples of recent coverage

·        There was a report of white-out conditions and heavy snow that caused major disruptions in travel — in those cases, KARE 11 issued warnings and advised staying off the roads.

·        When statewide closures or traffic incidents occur — like a semi-truck pile-up due to slick roads — this kind of media coverage helps people avoid hazardous zones.

·        Ahead of forecast storms or winter events, alerts are posted so individuals and families can prepare — whether that means shovelling driveways, postponing trips, or preparing for school delays/closures.

 

Why Road Conditions, School Closings & Weather Info Are Interconnected — What It Means for Residents

When you look at road conditions, school closings, and weather info together, you see a tight web of dependencies. For people living in Minnesota — and especially families, commuters, and frequent travelers — this interconnection has major consequences.

Safety first — but also preparedness

·        If snow or ice makes roads unsafe, travel becomes risky: more accidents, higher chance of getting stuck, or not being able to reach destinations. So having good information helps people avoid risk entirely.

·        For families with children, this also affects whether school runs are safe — especially when buses or walking to bus stops are involved. Decisions to close, delay, or shift to remote — if done thoughtfully — save potentially dangerous commutes.

·        Public services (like plowing, road maintenance) often respond faster when there’s accurate reporting and high public awareness — helping restore normalcy sooner.

Flexibility & planning — adapting to whatever weather brings

·        Because Minnesota weather can change fast — sunny one hour, snowstorm the next — residents need to stay flexible. That means checking official and media updates regularly.

·        Commuters may need to choose alternate routes, delay travel, or even postpone plans at short notice. School districts may need to communicate swiftly with parents.

·        Given the uncertainty, having systems like 511mn.org, media coverage, and school-district alert protocols help create predictability out of chaos: people at least know what to expect or when to avoid travel.

Community trust & communication — key for collective safety

·        Successful road and school management during bad weather requires coordination between official agencies (like MnDOT), local media, school districts, and residents.

·        When everyone uses the same trusted sources — 511mn.org, KARE 11 alerts, district notifications — there’s less confusion and fewer risky decisions.

·        Awareness campaigns — reminding people to check road/ weather status before traveling, to drive slow on slick roads, to plan alternate routes — become vital public-safety tools.

 

Recent Minnesota Alerts & Road/Weather Events: A Snapshot

To illustrate how these things play out in practice, here are a few recent events covering road hazards, weather alerts, and the resulting disruptions in Minnesota traffic and school operations:

·        A recent heavy snow/slush event in western Minnesota triggered a multi-vehicle crash (semi-pile-up near Moorhead), underlining the danger of slick roads. Local news outlets reported it, urging drivers to avoid affected areas.

·        When a winter-storm warning was issued for large parts of MN, media and official channels partnered to broadcast alerts about expected snow, icy roads, and advisories to limit travel.

·        Some major highways and urban roads — especially around metro areas — have recently been scheduled for closures due to maintenance or repairs. These closures are often announced via multiple platforms, so commuters can plan ahead and avoid unexpected detours.

·        For the population dependent on school buses, these weather events sometimes lead to school delays, closures, or even switch to remote learning, depending on severity of conditions — always with communication via district alerts and media advisories.

Thus, recent events show that Minnesota’s system — combining official road-status services and media coverage — remains vital for public safety and community functioning.

 

What Residents & Travelers Should Do: Practical Advice

Based on how things work in Minnesota, here’s a practical checklist for anyone living in or traveling through MN (or planning to) — especially in winter or during unpredictable weather:

1. Before traveling, check 511mn.org or call 511 — especially if heading out on highways or long distances. This ensures you know about closures, plow status, or weather-related hazards.

2. Watch local media weather/traffic alerts (like KARE 11 or other local stations) — they often highlight dangers more clearly and give localized advice (for metro, rural, or suburban areas).

3. If you have children, follow school district alerts carefully — a safe-travel update might translate into a school delay/closure, or at least impact bus schedules.

4. Have a backup plan: alternate routes, delayed departure, or even postponing non-essential travel if weather/roads look risky.

5. Be prepared in your vehicle — winter tires, emergency kit, warm clothes; snow/ice emergencies can escalate quickly.

6. Stay flexible: Recognize that decisions (like school closings) often happen early morning based on latest conditions — so be ready to adjust plans accordingly.

7. Share information: If you know neighbors, colleagues or friends who may not be following official channels, help pass along closures or road-condition updates — collective awareness helps everyone.

 

Why Minnesota’s Approach Matters — Lessons for Other Regions

Even if you don’t live in Minnesota, the way MN handles road and weather risks — through coordinated agencies, real-time information services, and media partnerships — offers a useful blueprint for any region with variable weather:

·        Centralized, accessible information system (511 or similar): A public, easy-to-use portal where travelers can check real-time road conditions, closures, and alerts is extremely valuable.

·        Multi-channel communication: Combining official sources (transport agencies, weather services) with media, community alerts, and school-district notices ensures that information reaches as many people as possible.

·        Preparedness and planning culture: In places with severe winters or unpredictable weather, a culture of “always check before you travel” helps reduce accidents and disruption.

·        Flexibility in education and public services: Having protocols for delays, remote learning, or closures helps maintain safety while preserving continuity for students and families.

Minnesota’s model demonstrates how governance, technology, and community cooperation can work together to manage weather-related risk effectively.

Minnesota’s road conditions, especially in winter, make travel challenging. But thanks to efforts by MnDOT and information services like 511mn.org — combined with media coverage and timely school-district alerts (through KARE 11 and others) — residents and travelers have the tools to make safer, informed decisions.

Whether it’s checking traffic cameras before a long drive, deciding whether to send children to school during a snowstorm, or simply knowing whether a highway is closed — reliable, real-time updates make a big difference.

For anyone living in or visiting MN: Stay informed, expect weather changes, and plan ahead. A bit of caution and preparation goes a long way toward safety and peace of mind.

3I/ATLAS A Visitor From Far Beyond What We Know What is 3I/ATLAS

3I/ATLAS A Visitor From Far Beyond What We Know What is 3I/ATLAS

·        3I/ATLAS is an interstellar comet — that means it did not form in our Solar System, but came from somewhere else in the galaxy.

·        The “3I” in its name stands for “third interstellar object”: it is only the third confirmed interstellar object observed in our Solar System. The first two were 1I/‘Oumuamua (2017) and 2I/Borisov (2019).

·        It was discovered on 1 July 2025 by the survey telescope ATLAS (Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System) in Chile.

Why Is It Classified as Interstellar?

·        The orbit of 3I/ATLAS is hyperbolic, not elliptical. This means it is just passing through — the Sun’s gravity will not capture it, and it will leave the Solar System again.

·        The speed and direction of its motion show that it came from outside the Solar System rather than being originally part of it.

What Do We Know About Its Physical Nature?

·        3I/ATLAS is not just a bare rock — it is an active comet. As it approaches the Sun, icy material on its surface sublimates (turns from ice to gas), producing a coma (cloud of gas and dust) and — in many comets — sometimes a tail. Observations show 3I/ATLAS has such cometary features.

·        The size (nucleus) of 3I/ATLAS is uncertain — because the coma is bright and hides the nucleus. Estimates place the diameter somewhere between ~0.3 km to possibly a few kilometers.

·        Using the powerful James Webb Space Telescope (JWST), scientists detected that the comet’s coma is rich in carbon dioxide (CO₂), along with water (H₂O), carbon monoxide (CO), other gases, dust, and ice. Its CO₂-to-H₂O ratio is unusually high compared to many comets we know.

·        Other observations (spectroscopy) have found signs of more complex molecules — dust, possibly some metallic or carbonaceous components. One recent study suggests 3I/ATLAS could be a “primitive carbonaceous” object with a significant metal fraction, different from many comets in our own Solar System.

Interesting Behavior & What Makes It Special

Because 3I/ATLAS comes from outside, it gives scientists a rare opportunity to study material that formed under completely different conditions than those in our Solar System. Some of its features are surprising:

·        Its gas composition — high in CO₂, with water, CO, dust — suggests it may have formed in a cold outer region of another star system, or perhaps under conditions quite distinct from typical comets discovered around our Sun.

·        Its coma and activity may reflect volatile ices and possibly a different formation history — meaning 3I/ATLAS might represent a kind of comet we rarely (if ever) witness inside our Solar System.

·        Studying such an object helps astronomers understand how planetary systems elsewhere form and evolve — and how common or rare certain types of icy bodies are beyond our Solar System.

What Has Recent Observation Shown?

In recent months (2025), astronomers — particularly using multiple assets of NASA — have captured detailed and close-up observations of 3I/ATLAS. For example:

·        Several of NASA’s spacecraft, including the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter and MAVEN — which orbit Mars — imaged the comet when it flew relatively close to Mars.

·        Other NASA missions designed to monitor the Sun and solar wind — though not primarily for comets — have also detected the tail or coma of 3I/ATLAS, showing how astronomers are using every tool possible to study it.

·        Scientists observed that the comet began outgassing and showing comet-like behavior (coma, dust, gas) even when it was relatively far from the Sun, which is unusual — many comets only become active when they come much closer.

Why 3I/ATLAS Matters for Science

The discovery and study of 3I/ATLAS is important for several reasons:

1. Window Into Other Star Systems — Because it formed elsewhere, 3I/ATLAS may carry the chemical and physical “fingerprints” of a different planetary system. Studying it allows scientists to compare that system’s building blocks with those of our own.

2. Understanding Diversity of Comets and Small Bodies — It broadens our view of what comets can be: varying in composition, size, structure — possibly much more diverse than we believed based only on Solar System comets.

3. Clues to Galactic Origins & Evolution — If 3I/ATLAS is as old as some studies suggest, it could predate our Sun — offering a rare time capsule to study ancient matter from the galaxy.

4. Testing Theories of Planetary System Formation — Data from this comet can help refine models of how planetary systems form and evolve elsewhere — including how icy planetesimals survive, drift, and are ejected into interstellar space.

What It Is Not — And What Scientists Reject

Given the media buzz and some speculation — especially on social media — it’s important to note that scientists have ruled out some wild ideas about 3I/ATLAS:

·        Some speculated it might be an alien spaceship or artificial probe. But based on all data (trajectory, gas composition, behavior), the consensus is firm: 3I/ATLAS is a natural comet.

·        Its closest approach to Earth will still be quite distant — about 1.8 astronomical units (≈ 170 million miles / 270 million km). So, there is no threat to Earth.

What’s Next — Why Scientists Are Excited

Despite its discovery and ongoing observations, 3I/ATLAS still holds many mysteries. Here’s what scientists hope to learn in coming months:

·        Detailed chemical and mineral composition: By combining data from telescopes sensitive to different wavelengths (infrared, ultraviolet, etc.), researchers aim to understand exactly what ices, gases, and dust make up the comet — and whether its chemistry is similar or very different to Solar System comets.

·        How common such interstellar visitors are: Since 3I/ATLAS is the third we’ve seen — and in quick succession — astronomers wonder whether many more interstellar objects pass through unnoticed. Improved surveys and telescopes may detect more in coming years.

·        What 3I/ATLAS tells us about planetary system evolution elsewhere: By comparing its properties with comets and asteroids from our system, we may get better ideas about how common Earth-like planets or comet-bearing systems are across the galaxy.

3I/ATLAS is a remarkable interstellar comet — a cosmic visitor from beyond our Solar System. Discovered in mid-2025, it is only the third known interstellar object ever observed. Its hyperbolic orbit, active outgassing, and unusual composition (rich in CO₂, water, dust, possibly metals) suggest it formed under conditions very different from what we see near our Sun.

Because of that, 3I/ATLAS offers a unique window into the materials and processes that shaped other star systems — possibly billions of years ago. As astronomers continue to observe it with telescopes and spacecraft around the Solar System, we may learn much about how common such visitors are, what they tell us about the galaxy’s history, and how planetary systems form and evolve elsewhere.

If you like — I can also walk you through how to see 3I/ATLAS from Earth (which kind of telescopes needed, where in the sky to look, when).