March 19, 2020

Storm fades tonight. Colder temps for the weekend. A winter weather advisory remains in effect in far southeastern Minnesota until early Friday morning. As temps drop in the evening, rain in southeastern Minnesota will turn into snow. Strong wind gusts continue to blow in central Minnesota tonight. The storm will move out of Minnesota by Friday morning, but the entire state will be noticeably colder.

COVID-19 in Minnesota today: 89 cases confirmed, the virus spreads to north-central Minnesota. Wadena County reported its first confirmed COVID-19 case today. Nineteen Minnesota counties now have confirmed coronavirus cases. One week ago, there were nine confirmed cases in just three counties.

No nonessential, elective surgeries, Gov. Walz orders. The executive order is effective starting Monday and will last indefinitely. Critical surgeries to save a life, preserve organ function or deal with diseases like cancer will be an exception.

Sick of binge-watching Netflix? You can enjoy shows, artwork by Minnesotans -- at home. Although many shows and performances have been canceled due to the coronavirus outbreak, there are podcasts, radio shows, artist groups on social media and more to enjoy while sitting on your couch. Check out what Art Hounds recommend this week in a time of social distancing.

Many people have lost work during the pandemic, but some businesses are still hiring. Is your business currently hiring? Or have you seen new listings while searching for jobs? Tell us via this survey as we continue to track economic impacts.

— Jiwon Choi and Sara Porter, MPR News

Confirmed coronavirus cases in the U.S. surpass 10,000

The country hit that marker days after all 50 states reported cases of COVID-19 disease. Jobless claims across the country have also spiked amid desperate attempts to keep the virus at bay. The State Department on Thursday instructed U.S. citizens not to travel internationally.

As part of White House response: FDA seeks to expand treatment for coronavirus
In Washington: Congress awaits GOP relief plan as first lawmakers test positive for coronavirus
At least 3,405 deaths: Italian death toll overtakes China's as virus spreads

Latest on COVID-19 in Minnesota: 89 cases; virus continues statewide spread

The Minnesota Department of Health confirmed 89 cases as of Thursday. Gov. Tim Walz says a “lack of testing capacity is still hampering us,” so that number is likely much higher.

Ag commissioner: 'Minnesotans should be confident in our food system'
In a pandemic: Working at a grocery store is risky — and vital
MN Senate leader: Gazelka warns against unchecked executive orders

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MN's schools closed for learning, but open for emergency personnel child care, planning

Most states in the country have or are planning to close schools to slow the spread of COVID-19. Minnesota’s governor — a former teacher — is instructing districts to open their doors to the children of health care and emergency workers.

Many MN child care centers remain open: Parents and workers in tough spot

Supermarkets add 'senior hours' for vulnerable shoppers

Many supermarkets, including Target, Walmart and Whole Foods, are setting special designated hours when only seniors and others most vulnerable to the coronavirus are invited to shop.

Jury finds Washington County deputy not guilty in 2018 shooting death

The jury in an otherwise empty courthouse found Washington County Deputy Brian Krook not guilty of manslaughter in the 2018 shooting death of 23-year-old Benjamin Evans.

Deputy says: He felt 'horrible' after shooting, killing a man threatening suicide

Yes, you can take your kids for a walk

With schools around the country closing for two weeks or more, parents and caregivers face a stiff challenge: Keep kids active, engaged — and as safe as possible. We've got a few suggestions.

Take a nature break:Minnesota state parks, trails stay open
Just for kids: A comic exploring the new coronavirus

In Little Falls, bus drivers bring meals, smiles to home-bound students

Schools across Minnesota shut their doors this week amid the COVID-19 outbreak, and districts are scrambling to provide meals to students who depend on them. Little Falls is one of several districts using bus drivers to deliver breakfast and lunch to school-age children.

Packing lunch, donating blood: Ways Minnesotans can help others during pandemic

'Things are changing every hour': Immigrant business owners in Twin Cities grapple with coronavirus restrictions

After recent announcements by state regulators curtailing the operations of many local businesses to slow the spread of COVID-19, restaurant and shop owners consider their financial futures.

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