Snow expected in early morning hours

WILLMAR -- Snow will begin to develop across far west central Minnesota after 3 a.m. this morning, according to the National Weather Service. Initially the snowfall will be light, but the intensity will likely increase. Snowfall rates approaching 1 to 2 inches per hour are expected by 6 a.m. today around the communities of Appleton, Madison and Morris.

A winter storm warning has been issued for 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. today. The Weather Service says snow has been developing across the Dakotas. Bands of heavy snow are forecast across western Minnesota toward daybreak, spreading across central and southern Minnesota throughout the morning.