A cold front is sweeping through the region today, stirring up some pretty strong northwest winds and spreading a little light snow across the Upper Mississippi Valley as cold air pours in behind it.  Winter weather headlines have been issued by the National Weather Service because of this cold front and the storm system to our east hat will plant itself in the western part of the Great Lakes in the next day or so, producing some accumulating snow for many of us.  Look for a light dusting for this afternoon with less than an inch or so of accumulation through the early evening, but a little more will develop tonight as the storm system to the east begins to get its act together a little more.  Expect an inch or so of accumulation overnight and then periods of light snow through tomorrow with strong winds blowing it around through the day, reducing visibility.  Rochester will receive an inc, perhaps two in the way of snowfall while areas to the west around Albert Lea and Mason City will see less than an inch of accumulation.  To the east, higher amounts will be expected with Winona looking at possibly three or so inches of accumulation and parts of Wisconsin on the east side of the Mississippi expecting four inches or so.  Winter Weather Advisories have been posted for late today, tonight, and much of tomorrow for areas from Rochester to the east as travel conditions may be difficult at times because of the wintry conditions.  If you’re heading to Chicago tomorrow, expect delays as heavier snow will fall through the day and up to six inches of total accumulation is expected.  Here’s a look at local snowfall forecast totals between tonight and tomorrow evening when the snow will taper off locally.

Snowfall forecast through Thursday evening. Blowing snow will create limited visibility and slick spots on local roads and highways through early Friday.

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