Big blast of snow could begin today

A winter storm watch for northern Wisconsin and the Gogebic Range is in effect from late this afternoon through Thursday.

The National Weather Service predicts the storm could dump from 3 to 5 inches of snow tonight and another 8 to 12 inches on Thursday.

There could be a period of freezing rain and sleet when the snow begins. Ice accumulations are possible.

The band of snow was expected to produce accumulations of 4 to 7 inches for portions of east central Minnesota and areas of northwest Wisconsin, according to the NWS office in Duluth.

Travel may be hazardous.

Douglas, Bayfield, Ashland, Ir...