Five Kansas National Guard Stranded Motorist Assistance Response Teams are standing by to assist local emergency responders to provide aid to travelers stranded due to blizzard conditions that moved into the state about noon today. The blizzard has moved into the state faster than expected and snow accumulation estimates have been raised to 9 inches for some parts of Northwest Kansas. The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed the several highways in Northeast Kansas due to blizzard conditions that include whiteouts and drifting snow. More closures are expected as the storm continues. Cheyenne, Rawlins and Sherman Counties have issued disaster declaration for blizzard conditions. Barber, Comanche and Seward Counties have issued disaster declarations due to wildland fires. Additional severe weather risk will continue through early evening across the eastern third of Kansas with the possibility of severe thunderstorms, 1-2 inch hail, damaging winds and isolated tornadoes. A tornado watch has been issued for Southeast Kansas until 9 p.m.