WILLMAR — Snow, which could be heavy at times, is expected to continue falling across west and south central Minnesota Friday. The National Weather Service has issued a
winter storm warning
for most of the area including all of Pope, Lac qui Parle, Swift, Chippewa, Kandiyohi, Meeker, Yellow Medicine, Renville and Redwood counties.
According to the storm warning, those counties could expect anywhere from 6 to 10 inches of snow by the time the storm wraps up later in the day. Snowfall rates of an inch an hour are possible, especially along the Minnesota River Valley.
Roads are already mostly snow covered across the area, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. Drivers should plan on slippery road conditions and possible blowing snow which could reduce visibility. The evening commute could be challenging, according to the weather service.
Many schools, churches, businesses and organizations have closed for the day or are rescheduling events. Some cities have also already called snow emergencies. The public should call ahead prior to driving to a location.
Saturday should be mostly sunny with a high near 9 degrees. Sunday will be even warmer with a high near 32 with a slight chance of snow in the morning and then partly sunny.
