DES MOINES -- The National Weather Service in Des Moines has issued a blizzard warning for the Waterloo area which is in effect from 6 p.m. today to 3 a.m. Tuesday.

A wind chill advisory has also been issued from 3 a.m. to noon Tuesday. The Winter Weather Advisory is in effect until 6 p.m. today.

A widespread 2- to 4-inch snowfall with locally higher amounts was anticipated today, at the rate of an inch an hour in some areas. Although the snow was to diminish in intensity this afternoon conditions were anticipated to deteriorate even further later in the day and evening.

Strong northwest winds of 25 to 35 mph with gusts as high as 50 mph were arrive late this afternoon and into this evening. The wind and fresh snow will produce blizzard conditions and whiteout conditions for a prolonged period Monday afternoon and evening. The most severe conditions are expected between 6 p.m. and midnight tonight.

Strong northwest winds will usher in an Arctic air mass into the state with dangerously cold wind chills of 20 to 30 below zero tonight through Tuesday morning.

The Weather Service urges no travel during a blizzard warning. Those who must travel should have a winter survival kit with them. Stranded motorists are urged to stay with their vehicles.