BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — A blizzard warning has been posted from much of central North Dakota where the first blast of significant snow could dump up to 18 inches (45 centimeters) in some areas Thursday.

The storm system tracking to the northeast from the Rockies and sweeping into the Midwest is expected to impact all parts of the state to some degree with winter storm warnings, advisories or watches outside of the blizzard zone.

“Should the storm develop to its full potential, gusts may frequent 50 mph with near-zero visibility in some cases over parts of the northern Rockies and Plains,” AccuWeather Meteorologist Nicole LoBiondo told the Bismarck Tribune.

Whiteout conditions were expected to make travel along stretches of Interstates 94 and 29 nearly impossible because of the blowing snow.

“Travelers should also prepare for widespread flight delays and cancellations at airports across the region,” LoBiondo said.

Up to 18 inches (45 centimeters) of snow is forecast for Bismarck and the surrounding region, while the Dickinson area could see 8 to 12 inches (30 centimeters) of snow, and the Minot and Williston regions 6 to 8 inches (20 centimeters) .

The state Department of Transportation said a shortage of snowplow operators could impact snow removal in the Williston region.