There's a chance Christmas could be whiter than it already is.

The National Weather Service predicts a 30 percent chance of snow before noon Saturday. Christmas in Bismarck will be cloudy and windy, but warmer, with a high near 31.

The frigid arctic air that hit the region Monday will begin to move out for now, but don't expect to wear sandals anytime soon. Today's high is predicted to be zero degrees or just below, with the low sinking to minus-10 tonight.

The weather service issued a hazardous weather warning for tonight through Friday night. Wind chills are expected to be in the 17- to 26-below range overnight.

Friday's high should be about 12 degrees, with the low around 9.

The day after Christmas is expected to be breezy and 33 degrees, with the high Monday and Tuesday forecasted to be 14 degrees.

The state highway patrol warned motorists to take care during holiday travel. It said to drive with care, especially along bridge decks and overheads. It issued the following tips:

* Reduce your speed.

* Increase following distance.

* Do not use cruise control.

* Turn on your headlights.

* Wear your safety belt.