FARGO - Snow and wind gave way to sunshine early Tuesday, but not before southeastern North Dakota residents got a good taste of winter.

The snowstorm that hit the region Monday, grounded flights, closed schools and prompted the Highway Patrol to warn against driving.

Fargo reported 6.5 inches of snow by 5 p.m., and more than a dozen schools sent students home early. Airlines canceled afternoon flights.

Highway Patrol Capt. Al Salvatore said visibility was down to 500 feet in some areas by late afternoon. Troopers responded to about 20 vehicles in ditches and several jackknifed tractor-trailers, he said.

"We've got winter," said Bruce Nord, a maintenance superintendent with the North Dakota Department of Transportation.

Stranded travelers trickled into Fargo's Doublewood Inn on Monday afternoon, said Rudy Martinson, an employee at the hotel.

"It's snowing and the wind's blowing," Martinson said. "It's kind of an ugly day all around."

Not everyone thought so.

"The weather is wonderful," said Keith Olson, who manages Ben Franklin in Fargo. "We've got snow and we've got snow and we've got snow."

Olson said the snow didn't stop holiday shoppers.

"They may not be able to make it to work but they can certainly make it shopping," Olson said.