Two vehicles broke through the ice on Lake Minnetonka in separate incidents in recent days, prompting renewed warnings from the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office about the dangers of ice travel.
The first incident occurred on Lower Lake North when a vehicle attempting to cross a pressure ridge broke through the ice. Fortunately, no one was injured. Hours later, a second vehicle went through in Echo Bay, despite newly placed electronic warning signs at several boat launches around the lake.
“Once again, a vehicle has gone through the ice while attempting to drive through pressure ridges on Lake Minnetonka,” the sheriff’s office stated. “Luckily, no one was hurt during the incident which took place yesterday. But we can’t stress enough the importance of using caution on ice.”
Authorities urge residents and visitors to be mindful of pressure ridges, which can be especially difficult to spot after snowfall. “Remember, ice near and around pressure ridges is not safe and is especially difficult to spot after snowfall,” officials warned. “To avoid the risks, avoid going near pressure ridges, check ice conditions, and know the body of water before heading out on ice.”
Water Patrol deputies spent much of the day placing electronic signs at popular access points, cautioning drivers about the current ice conditions. Despite these efforts, the second vehicle fell through just hours later.
“We can’t stress this enough; ice is never 100% safe!” officials emphasized.
With fluctuating temperatures and changing ice conditions, the sheriff’s office continues to urge caution for anyone venturing onto frozen lakes. Those who choose to do so should check ice thickness frequently, avoid known hazards, and always have an emergency plan in place.
For updates on ice conditions and safety recommendations, residents are encouraged to follow the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office and local authorities.
