ROCHESTER — The Minnesota Department of Transportation advises no unnecessary travel in southeastern Minnesota through Saturday morning, due to heavy snow and reduced visibility.

No closures of interstate highways or other roads are anticipated at this time. However, motorists may encounter brief lane closures where crashes occur.

As the storm moves across southeastern Minnesota, road conditions will continue to diminish through the evening and overnight hours.

Mn/DOT snow plow operators are out in force. Mn/DOT is reminding motorists to remember to:

Check road conditions – Go to www.511mn.org or call 511.

Be patient – Remember snowplows are working to improve road conditions for your trip.

Stay back – At least five car lengths behind the plow, far from the snow cloud; snowplow operators will pull over when it is safe to do so to allow traffic build-up to pass.

Stay alert – Snowplows turn or exit frequently and often with little warning; they may also travel over center lines or partially in traffic to further improve road conditions.

Slow down – Snowplows typically move at slower speeds.

For additional tips on safe winter driving, go to www.mndot.gov.