The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Watch, and widespread wintry precipitation is expected across the KMMO listening area this weekend.

A news release from the Pettis County Sheriff’s Office says total snow accumulation of two to eight inches and ice accumulation of around one-tenth of an inch are possible. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph.

Highest snowfall totals are more likely along and north of a St. Joseph-to-Chillicothe-to-Kirksville line. The greatest ice accumulation is likely along a Butler-to-Sedalia-to-Boonville line. Snowfall totals across the KC metro look to range from three to six inches.

The advisory is in effect from late Friday through Saturday evening.

Travel could become very difficult. Patchy blowing snow could significantly reduce visibility. Also, very cold temperatures and wind chills Saturday and Saturday night will impact vulnerable populations, as well as make travel more dangerous in the event that you become stranded in your vehicle.

The sheriff’s department advises area residents to monitor the latest forecasts for updates on the situation.

Saline, Carroll, Chariton, Cooper, Howard, Johnson, Lafayette and Pettis Counties are included in the advisory area.