Wind advisory issued for west central Minnesota

WILLMAR -- A cold front surging into Minnesota today will bring northwest winds at sustained speeds of 30 mph, with gusts to 40 mph, according to the National Weather Service.

The NWS has issued a wind advisory from noon to 7 p.m. for areas west of a line from Long Prairie to St. Cloud to Waseca. The high winds are expected first in west central Minnesota and will spread into the southeastern part of the state.

Drivers may experience difficult driving along east-west roads, especially for high-profile vehicles. Drivers are urged to use extra caution.

Area counties in the advisory include Kandiyohi, Swift, Chippewa, Meeker, Pope, Lac qui Parle, Renville and Yellow Medicine.