Snow was falling across Connecticut Sunday afternoon, as a massive nor'easter coating roads and making driving difficult on state roadways.
The National Weather Service expanded a blizzard warning to the entire state Sunday. Criteria for a blizzard include heavy snow, high winds sustained at 35 miles per hour or higher and visibility below a quarter of a mile for several hours, creating a white out condition. The blizzard warning is issued through 6 p.m. Monday.
The worst of the storm is expected between 6 p.m. Sunday and 6 a.m. Monday, according to NBC Connecticut Chief Meteorologist Brad Field. On average, the state will be digging out from anywhere between 12 and 18 inches of snow by the time it's all over. Some areas could see 20 inches if conditions are right, according to Field. High winds could cause snow drifts several feet high.
Gov. M. Jodi Rell ordered the state's Emergency Operation Center in Hartford to open to monitor the storm. She held a conference call with mayors and first selectmen from across the state to discuss storm preparations.
"The snow will be falling fast from late afternoon into the early morning hours, and the high winds will produce blowing snow that will have a major impact on our roads," Rell said. "We are urging residents to stay off the roads if at all possible. If you do not need to travel, please stay in."
The Governor put the Connecticut National Guard on standby to help handle any emergencies during the blizzard.
Get the latest forecast here.
