Schools in the Albert Lea, Alden-Conger, Glenville-Emmons, Lake Mills, Northwood-Kensett, NRHEG and United South Central school districts will be closed Friday as a major winter storm moves into the area.

The National Weather Service has indicated snowfall amounts could reach up to 14 inches or more in southern Minnesota along and north of the Interstate 90 corridor.

The area is expected to be under a blizzard warning from 9 p.m. today through 6 a.m. Saturday.

Heavy snow is expected to develop between 8 and 10 p.m. today, with increasing winds Friday.

Wind gusts up to 45 mph may result in blowing snow and possible whiteout conditions.

Freeborn County officials stated Thursday afternoon that county government operations will enter into an emergency situation protocol for Friday. All departments and offices will be open but may be understaffed. The public may experience delayed county service delivery do to anticipated lower staffing levels.

Motorists should monitor the latest weather conditions and prepare to adjust travel plans if necessary. Road conditions, weather warnings, snowplow and traffic cameras are available at www.511mn.org.

If travel is necessary, motorists should use slower speeds, travel with headlights on and turn off their cruise control.

When driving near snowplows, motorists should stay back 10 car lengths from the plow.

Snowplows are expected to work around the clock beginning Thursday afternoon.

The Weather Service advises people to not travel. If people do have to travel, they should have a winter survival kit with them.