The National Weather Service out of Green Bay has issued a winter storm warning for the Manitowoc area starting at 1 p.m. today until 10 a.m. Wednesday.

According to its forecast:

A band of snow is expected to produce 6 or more inches of wet packing-type snow today and tonight. Locations near Lake Michigan may see lower amounts due to warmer temperatures. The snow also may mix with sleet and light rain at times, lessening the accumulation.

Heavy snow can cause travel to become extremely hazardous as roads become snow or ice covered. Heavy snow also could reduce visibilities to a quarter of a mile or less at times.

"You just have to be cautious and slow down because the snow is so wet and heavy. When the roads are slushy, it pulls you into a ditch, that's why you have to be careful," said Gary Kennedy, Manitowoc County Highway Commissioner.

He expects the plowing crew to be out at 3 a.m. Wednesday morning and is hoping to have everything cleaned up by noon.

In addition to snow, strong northeast winds are expected this afternoon and tonight, which could cause damage to trees and power lines.

Winds will be between 13 and 20 mph today, with gusts as high as 29 mph possible. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent. Total daytime snow and sleet accumulation of around 2 inches is expected with temperatures reaching a high near 37 degrees.

Tonight's low will be around 32 degrees. Winds between 23 and 26 mph with gusts as high as 36 mph are possible. Chance of precipitation is 100 percent with a new snow and sleet accumulation of around 4 inches expected.

Snow is likely Wednesday, mainly before 1 p.m., with less than a half inch possible. Chance of precipitation is 60 percent. It will be cloudy, with a high near 36 degrees. Winds between 18 and 24 mph with gusts as high as 30 mph expected.