A blizzard warning has been issued by the National Weather Service office in Chanhassen for the Scott County area now through late Wednesday night.

Snow intensity will increase throughout the night, with periods of heavy snow expected in southern and eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin.

The snow will persist through Wednesday afternoon, primarily across the warning areas. The heaviest snow will occur south and east of a line from New Ulm to the Twin Cities to Siren, Wis.

In these areas, storm total snowfall amounts of 8 inches or more are likely by Wednesday afternoon. Across the remainder of the warning area, 6 to 9 inches are expected, including in the Twin Cities metropolitan area.

Increasing winds late tonight will result in blowing and drifting snow. The winds will keep blowing and drifting snow many hours after the snowfall ends. Difficult travel is likely throughout the duration of this system.

A blizzard warning means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Falling and blowing snow with strong winds and poor visibilities are likely. This will lead to whiteout conditions, making travel extremely dangerous.