The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning until 6 p.m. Saturday for Freeborn County and the surrounding region.

Snow has developed and is expected to last until around 6 a.m. Saturday. The heaviest snow is expected between 6 p.m. and midnight. 5 to 8 inches of snow is expected.

Winds gusting as high as 30 mph are expected to cause areas of blowing and drifting snow, resulting in poor visibility in some spots.

The impending storm forced the early closing of area schools.

Albert Lea School District, St. Theodore Catholic School, Alden-Conger Public Schools, NRHEG School District, United South Central Public Schools, Lake Mills Community School, Glenville-Emmons schools and Northwood-Kensett Community Schools dismissed by 1:10 p.m.

Look to the Tribune for more information as it is released.