The worst of a winter storm avoided much of Albert Lea on Tuesday.

The area saw freezing drizzle in the morning but did not see accumulating snow as originally predicted.

Weather forecasts led to the closure of Albert Lea Area Schools, Alden-Conger School, Glenville-Emmons School, Lake Mills Community Schools, Northwood-Kensett Schools and NRHEG Schools.

According to the National Weather Service, an Arctic air mass will bring cold wind chill values Wednesday night and into Thursday.

Winds could gust as high as 30 mph after midnight Wednesday and on Thursday, leading to potential blizzard conditions.

The Weather Service states widespread blowing snow is still expected, but as of Tuesday, widespread whiteout conditions were less likely. Blowing snow is possible from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Air temperatures are expected to drop to 10 to 20 degrees below zero Thursday night through Saturday morning, with wind chills of 20 to 35 degrees below zero.

The Weather Service states people outdoors will be at risk for frostbite and hypothermia.

The forecast has improved slightly from previous predictions.