NORTHERN INDIANA — The National Weather Service Northern Indiana has upgraded the winter storm watch to a winter storm warning that is in effect from 10 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 24, to 4 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 25.

The winter storm watch is no longer in effect. Kosciusko County, along with Elkhart, Marshall, Fulton, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Starke, Pulaski, White-Cass counties are in the warning.

A mix of rain and snow is expected to change to all snow by early Wednesday afternoon, continuing into Thursday. The snow may be heavy at times Wednesday afternoon and evening. Storm total snowfall accumulations of 4 to 8 inches are expected by late Thursday afternoon. Locally higher accumulations are possible.

The heaviest snowfall is expected Wednesday afternoon into Wednesday night.

North winds will increase to 20 to 30 miles per hour on Wednesday and shift to the northwest Wednesday night and Thursday. Gusts to 35-40 mph are possible Wednesday evening into Thursday causing some blowing and drifting snow and reduced visibility, especially in rural areas.

Travel conditions are expected to deteriorate during the day Wednesday with the most hazardous conditions occurring during Wednesday evening and Thursday morning commutes.

Some scattered tree damage is possible due to the combination of wet heavy snow and strong north winds. This could lead to scattered power outages where utility lines are impacted.

Roads will become snow covered and slick.

A winter storm warning for heavy snow means severe winter weather conditions are expected or occurring. Significant amounts of snow are forecast that will make travel dangerous. Only travel in an emergency. If you must travel, keep an extra flashlight, food and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency.