The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for Freeborn County starting at 9 p.m. tonight and ending at 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Up to 6 inches of snow is expected to fall in an area stretching from Albert Lea up to Red Wing and over to Eau Claire, Wis. Snow paired with 15 to 30 mph winds could create areas of blowing and drifting snow. Light snow is expected to start Tuesday evening, with the heaviest snowfall Tuesday night into Wednesday afternoon.

The snow is expected to diminish by Wednesday afternoon, with a high of 27 degrees.

Thursday is expected to bring mostly sunny skies with a high near 29 degrees. A chance of rain, snow and sleet is predicted for Friday, with cloudy skies and a high near 37 degrees