NEW ULM (AP) - Minnesota transportation officials are anticipating additional road closures Thursday as heavy thunderstorms redevelop in parts of the state.

Standing water closed sections of some highways and interstates in the Twin Cities metro area during the morning commute, including I-35 and Highway 169. MnDOT says a mudslide along westbound Interstate 694 in Arden Hills restricted travel to one lane at the peak of the morning rush.

A flash flood watch remains in effect until 1 p.m. Thursday for much of central Minnesota and parts of southern Minnesota. Forecasters say thunderstorms and damaging winds are expected Thursday afternoon.

Strong winds and rain damaged a car dealership in New Ulm Wednesday. The storm blew out windows of 70 vehicles and bent flagpoles at Kohls-Weelborg Chevrolet.

(Copyright 2012 by The Associated Press.  All Rights Reserved)

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