A significant winter storm that swept through the Midwest over Christmas is gradually losing strength, according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service (NWS). However, blizzard conditions continue to impact several counties in Colorado and parts of Nebraska on Wednesday morning.

The NWS stated that the storm, which had prompted widespread blizzard warnings across the northern and central Plains, is expected to diminish throughout the day. The main area of snowfall affecting portions of the northern and central High Plains is forecasted to taper off to light snow by Wednesday night.

Despite the weakening storm, blizzard warnings remain in effect for several areas in northeastern Colorado until 5 a.m. MST on Wednesday. Phillips and Sedgwick counties are expected to see additional snow accumulations of up to two inches, accompanied by gusty winds of up to 40 mph. Travelers are advised to exercise caution due to slippery road conditions and limited visibility caused by falling and blowing snow.

Further warnings have been issued for areas below 6,000 feet in north and northeast Elbert County, as well as North Lincoln and Washington counties, until Wednesday morning. These regions can anticipate additional snowfall of up to two inches, along with strong winds gusting up to 55 mph, leading to hazardous driving conditions.

Parts of northern Colorado's El Paso County, Monument Ridge, and the Rampart Range below 7,500 feet may experience an additional inch of snow. Winds in these areas are gusting up to 45 mph, resulting in areas of blowing snow that could significantly reduce visibility.

Meanwhile, western Nebraska still faces winter storm and blizzard warnings until early Wednesday morning. Counties such as Banner, Cheyenne, and Kimball are bracing for blizzard conditions, with potential additional snow accumulations of up to two inches, and even four inches in some areas. Winds of up to 60 mph create extremely dangerous travel conditions with icy, snow-packed roads and near-zero visibility.

Additionally, a warning is in effect for Deuel, Garden, and Keith counties until 5 a.m. MST. Blowing snow and very low visibility are expected due to winds gusting as high as 40 mph.

As the winter storm weakens, individuals across the affected regions are urged to stay updated on weather advisories and exercise caution while traveling.