Winter Storm Watch Issued For Bismarck Area

That sure escalated.  A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the Bismarck Mandan area.  Here's the latest from the National Weather Service.

A strong storm system is forecast to dig across the West over the next few days, before reaching the Plains. This powerful system is expected to produce heavy snow from the North-Central Rockies into the Northern Plains. Winter storm warnings/watches are already widespread across the region. Abnormally cold temperatures are also anticipated across the West with record lows mid to late week.

Winter Storm Watch in effect from late Wednesday night through Thursday night.  Heavy snow possible.  Total snow accumulations of 6 to 10 inches possible.  Locally higher amounts are possible.  Winds will be strong and could gust as high as 40 miles per hour.  This watch includes portions of north central, south central and southeast North Dakota.  Including Bismarck-Mandan.  This watch goes from late Wednesday night through Friday morning.  Travel could be very difficult to impossible.  Areas of blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility.  The hazardous conditions could impact the morning and evening commute.