Blizzard warning downgraded in western Minn.

WILLMAR — Difficult travel conditions are expected to last through the rest of the morning, the National Weather Service says, as strong winds will continue to create areas of blowing and drifting snow, but the blizzard warning has been downgraded to a winter weather advisory in several western counties.

The Benson, Granite Falls, Montevideo and Olivia areas are now included in the winter weather advisory until noon along with the Willmar area.

Winds will continue to decrease, and the light snow showers will diminish as the low-pressure system moves off to the northeast. Northwest winds of 20 to 25 mph, with gusts of 30 to 35, will subside this afternoon.

Travel conditions are still reported by the Minnesota Department of Transportation to be difficult across the area.