Staff photo by Clay Schuldt The first significant snow of the winter turns the footbridge near Minnecon Park into a winter postcard. A total of 2.9 inches of snow fell on New Ulm on Tuesday, with more expected on Friday.

ST. PAUL — As snow fell on much of southern Minnesota and the Twin Cites Tuesday, the Minnesota State Patrol reported 234 crashes, 22 with injuries, and one fatal crash, from 5 a.m. to noon.

In addition, 44 vehicles left the road and three jackknifed semis were reported early Tuesday.

Fear not. The Minnesota Department of Transportation (MnDOT), Brown County Highway Department and City of New Ulm Street Department are stocked up on salt and other chemicals to treat roads and will use plow trucks when needed.

Warmer weather is on the way too. Wednesday’s high is in the upper 20s and lower 40s on Thursday with afternoon sun.

On Friday, about three inches of snow is forecast. Daily high temperatures are 30 degrees on Friday and Saturday, 38 on Sunday and Monday with mostly sunny skies. Tuesday through Thursday highs are 41, 50 and 40.

Winter driving tips from the American Automobile Association (AAA):

• Stay home if you can.

• Slow down to account for lower traction on snow and ice.

• Accelerate and slow down slowly to avoid skids.

• If you can slow down to avoid stopping, do it.

• Don’t use cruise control when driving on any slippery surface like ice and snow.

• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area like a garage.

• Keep at least a half tank of fuel in your vehicle at all times.

• Ensure your tires are properly inflated and have plenty of tread.

• If traveling far, check the weather, pre-pack blankets, extra food, water, a flashlight, ice scraper, medications, heavy clothing and conserve fuel if you become stuck.

• Stay connected by notifying others, letting them know your route, destination and estimated arrival time.

(Fritz Busch can be emailed at fbusch@nujournal.com).