The United States Postal Service is attributing delays in deliveries in the area to winter weather.

Communications Specialist Nicole Hill said the recent winter storm, which impacted much of Minnesota, including Mower County, also affected delivery service.

Even with the storm done, there are still hazards that may affect how fast delivery routes go and whether mail will get to its recipients, Hill said.

“Letter carriers are advised to use good judgment when attempting delivery to addresses where ice and snow are not cleared,” she said.

While carriers try to make deliveries, sometimes blocked boxes or a situation that makes getting to the mailbox dangerous by foot or car prevent that, Hill said.

Carriers are not allowed to get out of their vehicles to make deliveries if the approach is blocked or dangerous due to ice or snow.

When carriers have to be more careful walking to deliver packages and letters, or while driving their routes, that adds to how long it takes them to complete their work, Hill said.

Hill wants to remind residents that they can help keep carriers safe by getting rid of ice and snow leading to where their mail will be dropped off, whether it is on walkways, sidewalks, steps, porches or around curbline boxes. She also added that clearing snow six feet on either side of the curbside mailboxes will allow carriers to approach and leave without having to back their vehicle up. Finally, Hill said that because deliveries may be happening during the evening this time of year, residents are asked to leave a light on to illuminate walkways and porches.