By Ed Shannon, Tribune staff writer

With a recorded snowfall of 10 inches as of 6:30 a.m. reported by Radio Station KATE, area motorists and school children were encountering some interesting adventures with the first real winter storm of the season.

A long list of south Minnesota and north Iowa schools either closed for the day or two hours late were being reported by area radio and television stations. Also, many activities may be canceled until a later date.

The Albert Lea Police Department said there were no real problems reported this morning.

However, a department spokesman said motorists should use caution and watch out for snowplows as they try to negotiate snow-covered streets and highways.

Another spokesman said there are many stuck cars. He added that no travel is recommended and that it’s very slippery under the snow.

For the day, it appears the challenges for area residents will be to clear snow off driveways and sidewalks, and to find activities to keep children busy.

Adam Frederick, meteorologist for KIMT-TV in Mason City, Iowa, said there’s &uot;more snow, ending either tonight or early Saturday morning.&uot;

He said as of this morning there is two inches of snow in Mason City, and predicted there will be a foot of snow in Albert Lea by the time the storm system moves out of the area.

(Contact Ed Shannon at ed.shannon@albertleatribune.com or 379-3434.)