Officials are cautioning travelers that a winter storm currently making its way into South Dakota will likely make travel difficult in the western and central parts of the state, especially the Black Hills, this afternoon through Tuesday.

According to the National Weather Service, a winter storm warning has been issued for the northern Black Hills with heavy snow and strong winds gusting from 45-55 mph.

Travel conditions are expected to become hazardous this afternoon and could possibly affect the evening commute. Motorists should be prepared for snow-packed and slippery roads, limited visibility and heavy drifting.

A winter weather advisory is in effect for the rest of western and central parts of the state. Varied snow accumulations of two to five inches and wind gusts up to 29 mph overnight could make travel conditions hazardous with icy roads and limited visibility as the system moves to the east.

Officials are encouraging motorists to move up travel plans to avoid travel during the storm system expected to last through Tuesday.