Rochester, MN (KROC-AM News) - Schools throughout the region are closed today as snow plow crews remain busy and residents of southeastern Minnesota dig out from a fast-moving clipper storm that dumped 6 to 8-inches of snow on the Rochester area overnight.

The arrival of the system came a bit later than expected, but once the snow started around 9 PM in Rochester it came down heavy and fast. So far, the highest snowfall total in the region is 9.5-inches in Mabel. There was also a report of 9-inches in Goodview.

While the snow plows have been out for hours, travel conditions remain dicey and could worsen this week. The Minnesota Department of Transportation is describing roads throughout the region as completely covered by snow and ice. The bitterly cold temperatures and gusty winds will likely render salt nearly useless in coming days, which could result in significant icing on area roads despite the efforts of state and local crews. Officials are urging everyone to slow down and make sure to shut off the cruise control.

The arctic air that is being pulled into Minnesota by the storm system is expected to result in falling temperatures through the day tomorrow and a morning low on Wednesday of 25-below zero with wind chill readings of around 50-below or colder.

More From KROC-AM