Caltrans is alerting motorists to be prepared for winter driving conditions as an intense cold storm is forecast for the Northern California area.

The National Weather Service has issued a winter storm warning for a weather system expected to arrive mid-day Wednesday and continue through Friday morning. Snow level could be as low as 3,000 feet as the cold storm moves into the Sierra.

Lake Tahoe Basin locations are expecting significant snow accumulations.

This storm will result in winter driving conditions throughout the area, including areas of localized flooding. Strong winds are also forecast, creating low visibility from white-out conditions in the higher elevations.

Chain controls on Interstate 80 over Donner Summit, on Highway 50 over Echo Summit and on other Sierra mountain roadways should be anticipated Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning.