The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning in Albert Lea and much of the surrounding area.

Snow began falling early this morning and as of press time, Albert Lea had already seen between 1 and 2 inches.

The snow comes as a strengthening storm system has moved northeast from the central Rockies to the Upper Midwest. Significant snow accumulations are possible over much of central and southern Minnesota.

National Weather Service forecasts at least 8 inches 

The Chanhassen bureau of the Weather Service is forecasting in excess of 8 inches of snow for the Albert Lea area. The highest amounts of snow will be in southwestern Minnesota.

According to the Weather Service, snow was expected to develop around 6 a.m. today and then diminish around midnight Tuesday night. The heaviest snowfall rates will occur mid-afternoon through this evening.

A few breaks in the precipitation are possible, as is a brief wintry mix.

Motorists can expect significant reductions in visibility at times and should plan on difficult driving conditions, including during the evening commute today.

If people must travel, the Weather Service advised keeping an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.

The latest road conditions for the state can be obtained by calling 511 or visiting www.511mn.org.

The storm warning is in effect for the area along and west of a line from Glenwood to Litchfield to Faribault and Albert Lea.

Blue Earth, Waseca, Steele and Faribault counties are included in the storm warning.