Those planning to travel north or west this evening for Thanksgiving may want to consider their plans as a strong storm system moves through. According to the National Weather Service, a strong winter storm will hit the northwest half of Iowa and large portions of South Dakota and Minnesota. Travel is expected to be most hazardous in the northwest half of the state, largely west and north of a line cutting from Omaha/Council Bluffs to Decorah in northeast Iowa, with the heaviest amounts from Sioux City to Mason City.

Locally, rain will be the primary concern, with trace amounts of snow possible, depending on the track and timing of cold air moving with the system. Breezy winds are also expected statewide Wednesday, with gusts up to 45 MPH possible. A potentially active weather pattern will continue into the week, with small chances for light snow on Thursday and a better chance for rain returning Friday into Saturday.

Stay tuned to KNIA/KRLS for the latest weather information.