Winter storm brings 1st significant snows to Minn.

Snowy yard
Snow covered this backyard in Eden Prairie, Minn. Friday morning.
MPR Photo/Craig Edwards

The first blast of winter hit the Twin Cities and southern Minnesota on Friday, prompting state officials to remind drivers to remember how to get around when the snow falls.

State officials advise motorists to reacquaint themselves with how their vehicle responds on snow and ice by testing the brakes. Officials also say drivers should slow down and keep a safe distance between vehicles.

The storm that created a blizzard in the Dakotas also left several inches of snow in Minnesota, including 5 inches in Olivia and Watertown, 4 1/2 inches in Madison and 4 inches in Brownton.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)

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