The agency forecasts snow accumulations of 12 to 18 inches during this time for areas above 6,000 feet, while areas over 4,000 feet should expect 3 to 6 inches. On Saturday, wind gusts could reach 50 miles per hour in speed, with travel becoming "very difficult to impossible."

Winter storm warnings are in place in several states with heavy snow, freezing rain and dangerously cold temperatures expected.