A Winter Weather Advisory has been issued for portions of northern Indiana and southwest Michigan as lake effect snow and strong winds are expected to create hazardous travel conditions through Tuesday morning.

The advisory is in effect from 8 a.m. EDT (7 a.m. CDT) Monday, March 16, until 11 a.m. EDT (10 a.m. CDT) Tuesday, March 17.

Forecasters say lake effect snow could produce total accumulations between two and five inches across the region. In addition, northwest wind gusts could reach up to 40 miles per hour, which may lead to blowing snow and sharply reduced visibility.

The deteriorating conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day on Monday and could affect the Monday evening commute. At times, visibility may drop to near zero as snow bands move through the area.

Areas included in the advisory are Elkhart, LaGrange, northern LaPorte, eastern and western St. Joseph counties in Indiana, and Cass, St. Joseph, and northern and southern Berrien counties in Michigan.

Drivers are urged to slow down and use caution if traveling. Officials say the latest road conditions can be obtained by calling 511.