The National Weather Service in Lincoln says a winter storm will continue to take shape across Texas this morning, then lift northeast through the day. By Wednesday morning, it is expected to be centered in south central Tennessee. This type of track would favor the potential for heavy snow across portions of southern Illinois and western Indiana.

No travel impacts are expected during the daylight hours Tuesday, but snow is expected to spread northward across east central and southeast Illinois Tuesday night, and continue through much of Wednesday before diminishing from west to east.

Areas along and south of the I-70 corridor have the best potential for seeing at least 6 inches of snow out of this system. Snowfall amounts taper off to the north of I-70, with little or no snow expected northwest of I-55. North winds of 15 to 25 mph, with gusts to 40 mph, will lead to blowing and drifting snow as well.

Given the high travel activity associated with the holidays, people traveling across the Midwest Christmas Day and Wednesday should check the latest forecasts before departing, and be prepared to make adjustments to travel plans as necessary.