(MSC News)--Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has declared a state of disaster emergency in advance of winter storms headed for the state. The declaration allows state resources to be deployed in advance of anticipated heavy snowfall, which is expected to hit the eastern half of Kansas on Wednesday.

The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy snowfall and has issued a winter storm warning, which will be in effect from 9 pm Tuesday to 6 pm Wednesday. Storms could dump as much as 6-9 inches across portions of eastern Kansas.

“Kansans have faced challenges due to winter storms this year,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The key to meeting those challenges is to be prepared. As I did during past storms, I urge all Kansans to take measures to make sure their families are ready by making a home emergency kit and emergency plan.”

A home emergency kit should include a battery-operated radio, flashlight and extra batteries, extra blankets and warm clothing, nonperishable food, high-energy snacks, and drinking water, at least one gallon per person per day, for a minimum of three days.

It is also advisable to keep an emergency supply kit in your car that also includes jumper cables, flares or reflective triangle, ice scraper, car cell phone charger, blanket, map, and cat litter or sand (for better tire traction).

Avoid travel if you can. If you do travel, make sure someone knows your travel plans and that your vehicle has a full tank of gas during extreme cold situations so that you can stay warm if you become stranded. Ensure your mobile phone is charged, and make sure your car's emergency kit is up to date. Whether at home or on the road, listen to your local radio and television stations for the latest weather information.

For continuously updated road information, go to KanDrive.org and click on the Road Condition map. You can also call 511 - for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

The release says the Kansas Division of Emergency Management will be monitoring the situation and will assist counties and local responders if requested.