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Dayton Authorizes Shelter For Stranded Motorists

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP/WCCO) — Gov. Mark Dayton has issued a retroactive executive order authorizing the use of a National Guard Armory in Olivia as shelter after some stranded motorists had to stay there during Sunday night's blizzard.

Dayton's office issued the order Tuesday. Dayton's spokeswoman, Katharine Tinucci, says the governor verbally authorized the use of National Guard resources on Sunday.

The blizzard that struck most of Minnesota's southern half on Sunday hit particularly hard in Renville County. Roughly 80 stranded travelers were forced to spend the night in Olivia due to several major highway closures in the area, and the town's one hotel filled up quickly.

Tinucci says she does not believe any of the motorists are still stranded.

The last drivers left the armory Monday afternoon, and the roads are now back open. The Renville County sheriff said driving conditions in the area were fair.

(TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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