--- UPDATE 8:00 p.m. 3/24 ---

The National Weather Service has expanded its blizzard warning to also include Buffalo and Phelps counties. The warning is in effect from 1:00 a.m. Monday to 7:00 a.m. on Tuesday.

The NWS says between 3-8 inches of snow is possible in Buffalo and Dawson counties, with the higher snow totals expected further west. The snow combined with sustained wind gusts of 40 mph or greater could cause white out or blizzard conditions for several hours on Monday.

Some areas of central Nebraska, particularly in Dawson, Custer and Valley counties, could see more than a quarter-inch of ice accumulation with this storm.

In response to the forecast, Kearney Public Schools cancelled school on Monday.

Officials encourage people to avoid travel if possible.

--- Original story 12:30 p.m. 3/24 ---

HASTINGS, Neb. — Forecasters say severe weather is expected across Central Nebraska on Sunday and Monday.

The National Weather Service says severe thunderstorms are possible Sunday afternoon and evening. In the overnight hours, forecasters say rain will change to snow from west to east. A blizzard warning begins for Gosper, Dawson, Custer, Sherman and 31 total counties starting shortly after midnight.

The NWS predicts 1-4 inches of snow for most of the region east of Lincoln County. The snow will be paired with wind gusts in excess of 40 mph in some areas, which could cause blizzard conditions.

A winter storm watch will be in effect for 10 Nebraska counties, including the Tri-Cities.