Think snow days are just for kids? Think again.

The highly publicized and anticipated blizzard finally swept through Niles last night, forcing not only all area schools to close but also many businesses and government buildings.

The winter storm, which became a point of national discussion with puns like “snowpocalypse” and “snOw MG,” almost lived up to expectations in dumping about a foot of snow. Heavy winds whipped through the area as well, causing drifting snow, messy roads and tall snow banks.

The City of Niles and Berrien County closed government buildings, but Niles opened a warming station at the Fire Department.

Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey declared a road emergency for the county, urging motorists to stay off roadways except for emergencies. And it appears most people took the advice to heart.

Niles City Police Chief Richard Huff said it was a pretty uneventful night for his officers as traffic was “considerably less” and no accidents were reported.

“People were understanding that we’re under a blizzard warning, so there was less traffic. People were driving slower,” he said.

City police officers utilized four-wheel drive vehicles last night in order to be able to trek through the snow more easily.

Based on reports from his officers, Huff said the road conditions in Niles were “pretty good” as of Wednesday afternoon.

“The street department has done an excellent job at getting main roads clear,” he said. “They’ll be cleaning up side streets as time allows.”

The Michigan Department of Transportation addressed road conditions Wednesday morning, deeming the roads in “relatively good shape.”

Crews are working to clear snow off the roadways as quickly as possible but cold temperatures and strong winds are posing challenges to plow drivers.

MDOT officials say with temperatures under 19 degrees, salt will not work to break down slick surfaces and melted snow is refreezing faster. Drivers should expect roads to be icy and should take precautions.

The Cass County Road Commission began plowing roads at 5 a.m. Wednesday and began with primary roads followed by local paved and gravel roads with subdivisions and lake communities getting cleared last.

But blustery conditions kept the commission from being able to predict when all the road will be fully cleared. Road commission officials estimated 70 percent of gravel roads and lake community roads have been opened up, as of Wednesday evening.

While the National Weather Service forecasts for the snow to end today, frigid temperatures will remain with only a high of 16 degrees.