On Wednesday at 2:45 a.m. the National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch valid from 10 p.m. until Friday 10 a.m. for West Central Willamette Valley, East Central Willamette Valley, Benton County Lowlands,

A winter storm watch is usually issued when a storm system is one to two days from starting. This long lead time is used to help you get ready if you have to make travel or work changes. Eventually as the storm gets closer, the winter storm watch either turns to a winter storm warning or a winter weather advisory.

The National Weather Service has upgraded the Winter Storm Watch to a Winter Storm Warning for the majority of the region. What to Expect This storm is expected to bring 5 to 8 inches of snow, starting Wednesday morning and lasting into the night.