Winter weather is in the forecast for this Thanksgiving weekend.

Albert Lea could see a mix of rain and sleet, according to the National Weather Service as of press time on Wednesday afternoon.

Rain and sleet were expected to move into the area early Thanksgiving Day, with rain, sleet and possible snow expected before 10 a.m. After 11 a.m., snow is expected.

The Weather Service stated temperatures are slated to fall to 30 degrees by 4 p.m., with a chance of precipitation at 100 percent. New snow and sleet accumulation of 1 to 2 inches is possible, with snow expected to continue to about 9 p.m.

Weather is expected to clear on Friday.

The Minnesota Department of Transportation issued a news release Wednesday stating it is ready to make highways safe for the traveling public.

“Winter weather is forecasted for southeast Minnesota, and our 113 snowplows are ready,” said Jeff Vlaminck, district engineer for the 11-county MnDOT region in southeastern Minnesota. “Our goal is to return roads to normal driving conditions as quickly as possible after a winter event.”

After last week’s snow in southeast Minnesota, MnDOT maintenance crews spent time earlier this week cleaning, servicing and repairing equipment. They have been working on calibrating sanders and training new employees in snow and ice procedures.

All plows and sanders will be hung on trucks and ready for the holiday.

MnDOT works year-round on training staff, making sure sand and supplies are adequate and improving its technology, but the agency is also asking that the traveling public be prepared for winter driving.

“In Minnesota, we know that weather conditions can change quickly, so it’s important for drivers to know what the conditions are before they depart to help them make smart decisions about whether they want to travel,” Vlaminck said.

MnDOT urged motorists to use the 511 traveler information system website and phone app to plan their travel. The system provides road and winter driving conditions for the entire state and links to National Weather Service information. The system is available at www.511mn.org or by dialing 511. Motorists can also download the free 511 app on their smartphones and other mobile devices.

For safe winter driving, MnDOT asks motorists to take responsibility to:

Avoid distractions; stay off cell phones and mobile devices.

Don’t crowd the plow. Stay back at least five car lengths, and preferably 10, from the snow plow.

Obey the law by turning on headlights and wearing seat belts.

Turn off cruise control.

Make sure vehicles are in good operating condition for winter driving.

For more winter driving information, visit www.mndot.gov/workzone/winter.html