UPDATE: Blizzard & Winter Storm Warnings in Effect Today

Blizzard and Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for portions of Central Minnesota including Benton & Stearns Counties, in effect until 9:00 tonight. The National Weather Service says falling temps, strong winds, and 5-12" of snow will cause drifting and whiteout conditions making travel difficult or impossible.

From the National Weather Service this morning:  Heavy snow will continue for much of the day from western Minnesota to northeastern Minnesota. The rain/snow line will march east through the afternoon. Very strong winds with gusts as high as 55 mph are expected across southwest Minnesota, with lighter winds further northeast. The strong winds and snow will make for dangerous whiteouts this afternoon in the Blizzard Warning area.