The National Weather Service has expanded a blizzard warning to include Albert Lea in the anticipation of snow and dangerous wind chills expected today.

The blizzard warning begins at noon and continues through midnight today.

Albert Lea Area Schools, Alden-Conger School, Glenville-Emmons, Lake Mills Community School, Northwood-Kensett Community School, NRHEG School and United South Central Public Schools will be closed.

According to the weather agency, snowfall amounts of 3 to 5 inches are expected. Winds are expected to increase late this morning with gusts as high as 45 mph, with blizzard conditions developing across west central Minnesota and into south central Minnesota by the afternoon and lasting through the evening.

A wind chill advisory is also in effect with wind chills of 30 below to 35 below zero expected.

Falling and blowing snow, combined with high winds will lead to poor visibilities and whiteout conditions.

People are advised not to travel.

The blizzard warning comes after a band of moderate freezing rain, sleet and snow passed over the area Wednesday evening and overnight.