Update:

This advisory was canceled in the early morning hours by the National Weather Service in Des Moines. The second wind advisory was activated in its place, and will remain in effect until 6 p.m. Thursday.

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An approaching cold front with strong winds and blowing snow has caused the National Weather Service to issue a winter weather advisory for 6 p.m. Wednesday to noon Thursday.

Winds are expected to increase Wednesday afternoon, and snowfall is expected to begin around 4 p.m. The heaviest snowfall is anticipated between 6 p.m. and midnight.

Total accumulation is expected to be 1-2 inches, with the Ames forecast calling for around an inch of accumulation.

Northwest winds will be between 25-35 mph with gusts up to 45 mph. A pair of wind advisories are in effect from now until 6 p.m. Wednesday and noon to 6 p.m. Thursday.

The advisory warns that strong winds and falling snow will reduce visibilities and make travel difficult. It also said that initial warm road temperatures could allow for icing on surfaces.

The Iowa State Daily will continue to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and provide any updates as they become available.