OMAHA, Neb. (AP) — Meteorologists say heavy snowfall atop icy roadways and blowing snow could make travel exceptionally hazardous over the weekend in northern Nebraska and much of northern Iowa. The National Weather Service said Friday in winter storm warnings that up to 16 inches (41 centimeters) of snow could be dumped in northern Nebraska with lesser amounts to the south, where higher temperatures are expected as the wintry storm passes to the east.

The Iowa warnings say as much as 7 inches is expected in Sioux City, with lesser amounts to the east and south. Rain, freezing drizzle or sleet is expected to precede any snow. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph are forecast in parts of both states.