Big Winter Storm is Coming

A winter storm warning has been issued for the entire area for today and Saturday. The National Weather Service has issued the warning from noon today to 6 p.m. Widespread snow, sleet and freezing rain will begin today and continue through Saturday. The NWS predicts snow accumulation of 2 to 5 inches through much of the area Strong southeast winds gusting up to 30 to 35 mph this afternoon and evening when combined with the falling precipitation will further reduce visibilities and cause dangerous traveling conditions according to the NWS. The winds will increase to 40 to 45 mph Saturday, leading to blowing and drifting snow. Temperatures also will drop, leading to wind chills of 10 to 20 degrees below zero by Saturday night.