Winter Storm Watch

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch for a portion of central Minnesota in effect from this evening through Sunday afternoon -- including Kandiyohi, Meeker, and Wright counties -- and the Twin Cities metro.

There has been a northern shift in the snow band recently. If this continues, snowfall amounts of 6 inches or greater would be possible in the Watch area. The heaviest snow will be Sunday morning.

A Winter Storm Warning is in effect for the southern part of Minnesota including Marshall, Mankato, Albert Lea, Rochester, and Red Wing -- where 6 to 8 inches of snow are expected.

Travel across the southern part of the state will be difficult. If you must travel, keep a charged cell phone, warm clothes, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

The latest road conditions are available by calling 511, or visiting 511mn.org.

Pete Hanson is on 98.1 Minnesota's New Country weekday mornings from 5:30 to 10:00.