Department of Transportation lifts no travel advisory for southern Minnesota

(KMSP) - A no travel advisory for much of southern Minnesota has been lifted by the Department of Transportation, though officials still warn motorists to be careful amid heavy snow and winds that are reducing visibility across portions of the state.

The no travel advisory had applied to Cottonwood, Faribault, Jackson, Martin, Nobles, Rock and Watonwan counties. MnDOT says Blue Earth, Brown and Waseca, Nicollet. Le Suer and Sibley counties may also be added to the list if conditions require.

According to the Minnesota State Patrol, there were 184 crashes in Minnesota--13 with injuries--and 37 vehicle spin outs between midnight and 4:30 p.m.

Snow is expected to make for a messy evening commute in the metro. Check live traffic conditions and cameras at fox9.com/traffic.

The bulk of snow accumulation will likely occur between noon and 5 p.m. As of Monday morning, snowfall totals are expected to be between 1-4" in the far north and northwest metro and 7-10" in the far south and southeast metro. There will likely be pockets of 10-12" possible in southern Minnesota.

WINTER WEATHER DRIVING TIPS:

Slow down and increase your following distance
Headlights ON, cruise control OFF
Use caution around plows-- give them room
Check road conditions before you go
If there is a "no travel advisory" in your area, follow it

SCHOOL CLOSINGS: Dozens of districts in Minnesota and western Wisconsin have declared school closings in anticipation of Monday's snow. You can check an updated list at fox9.com/closings.

GET THE FOX 9 WEATHER APP: You can track the snow and temperatures in your specific location on the Fox 9 Weather App, which also includes a live, interactive traffic map with road conditions and active crash incidents. Check the 7-day forecast from the Fox 9 Weather Center at fox9.com/weather.