While southern Ohio may not receive the full impact of the latest winter storm forecasted to hit the state today, residents should prepare to see several inches of snow following an early rain.

Winter storm watches have been posted for portions of central and northern Ohio, and locally, forecasters with the National Weather Service say one to three inches of snow can be expected before the latest storm system exits early this morning.

The latest weather summary statement from NWS brings a strong low pressure system across southern Ohio today.

According to prognostications, the precipitation forecast for last night will spread into western Ohio, then spread east across the entire state by early today.

Precipitation will begin as a mix of rain and freezing rain across northern Ohio, and as rain in central and southern Ohio.

Forecasters say the precipitation gradually will change to all snow Tuesday afternoon, as the low moves east of the state.

When all is said and done, the area could see an accumulation of one to three inches of snow by this evening along the Ohio River.

Kim Carver, director of the Scioto County Emergency Management Agency, said those planning to travel for business today should monitor conditions closely.

"There is still some uncertainty as to the exact track of the low pressure system," she said. "A more southern low track could lead to higher snowfall amounts. If later models show a track further south, southern Ohio snowfall estimates may be increased and winter storm watches expanded."

FRANK LEWIS can be reached at (740) 353-3101, ext. 232.