MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) – A winter storm that’s causing huge problems across the Midwest moved into Minnesota Thursday night.

Places south of the Twin Cities could see a foot of snow.

The morning commute is expected to be a messy one, but the Department of Transportation (MnDOT) has been working since Wednesday to make sure Minnesota roads are safe.

MnDOT said crews will be out overnight Thursday, working 12 hour shifts. On top of that, crews already started pre-treating highways Wednesday night.

The worst spots on roads — like bridge decks, ramps and loops — got dusted with a salt mixture again Thursday night around 7 p.m.

This storm is different from other recent storms in that rain and sleet are not expected.

MnDOT says that since the storm is all snow, it will make conditions easier for crews to treat.

But that doesn’t mean drivers should let their guards down.

“Best advice to drivers: Check the weather conditions before you leave, check the traffic conditions, leave early, give yourself plenty of time, no tailgating and…stay back from our plows,” said Kent Barnard, a MnDOT spokesperson.

Earlier this week, there was a deadly accident in western Minnesota involving a driver trying to pass a snow plow.

MnDOT wants to remind drivers not to try to beat them out on the roads.