SIDNEY - Strong winds and unsettled weather are set to impact the Sidney region beginning Friday, according to the National Weather Service.

High Wind Warnings are in effect for portions of Nebraska, Wyoming and Colorado, including Cheyenne, Deuel, Garden and Kimball counties in Nebraska, Laramie County in Wyoming, and Logan and Sedgwick counties in Colorado. Winds are expected to intensify as early as 8 a.m. Friday, with gusts reaching 60 to 65 mph. The warnings will remain in effect through midnight for some areas, while others could see strong winds persist into Saturday.

Forecasters warn that the high winds could make travel dangerous, especially for high-profile vehicles such as semis, trailers and campers. Loose objects may be blown around, and power outages are possible due to downed tree limbs or power lines.

The storm will also bring scattered to widespread rain, with precipitation peaking Friday night into early Saturday. While most areas will see rain, portions of northern Nebraska could experience a mix of rain and snow or brief periods of snowfall.

After a brief lull in winds on Saturday, forecasters say another round of strong winds is expected Sunday and into early next week. Additionally, fire weather concerns will increase, with strong winds and low humidity creating conditions favorable for rapid wildfire spread.