The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm watch for much of south central Minnesota in anticipation of mixed precipitation and snow this weekend.

Mixed precipitation is likely in south central Minnesota Saturday morning, which will be followed by a narrow band of heavy snow and strong winds late Saturday into Sunday.

The storm is expected to drop 6 to 9 inches of snow, though there is a potential for up to a foot of snow accumulation, according to the weather agency. Winds could gust up to 45 mph and combine with accumulating snow, leading to hazardous driving conditions. Travel could be difficult.

The winter storm watch is in effect from Saturday evening through Sunday afternoon.