A winter storm warning for Scott County is in effect from 3 p.m. today until p.m. Friday, according to the National Weather Service office in Chanhassen.

The storm warning includes much of south central and central Minnesota, including the Twin Cities.

This winter storm is expected to be just as potent as the one this past weekend, and potentially be even more dangerous because of accompanying strong winds and the fact that it is occurring during weekdays.

The weather service said motorists planning travel need to be prepared for heavy snow and the increasing winds, and consider canceling traveling plans during times when blizzard conditions are appearing more likely, on Thursday and Thursday night.

Snow will spread into central and southern Minnesota during the mid- to late-afternoon. Accumulating snow can be expected in St. Cloud, the Twin Cities, and Albert Lea by or during the late afternoon and early evening rush hour.

The snow will last into the overnight hours tonight for much of central Minnesota. Brief moderate to heavy snow is possible with accumulations of up to a half-foot in places of central Minnesota. Freezing rain is possible over south central Minnesota, along the Interstate-90 corridor tonight, leading to slick roadways.

During Thursday, deteriorating conditions are expected by mid- to late-morning across much of the area. Frequently heavy snow and northeasterly winds will combine to make near blizzard conditions in places through the afternoon and into Thursday evening.

Blizzard conditions with near zero visibility are appearing more likely especially in rural areas. The snow will begin to weaken in intensity late Thursday night into early Friday morning.

However, accumulations will continue in places and the stiff winds will be slow to subside, leading to blowing and drifting snow creating treacherous travel conditions in many places on Friday.

A winter storm warning means significant amounts of snow, sleet, and ice are expected or occurring. Strong winds are also expected.