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Shoreline Braces for Snow as 'Bomb Cyclone' Descends

Residents along along the shoreline and throughout the state are preparing for what weather forecasters have called a "bomb cyclone" and all the wintery conditions that come along with it.

The National Weather Service (NWS) had issued a winter storm warning on Wednesday, Jan. 3 for the entire state effective at 1 a.m. on Jan. 4. The NWS then issued a blizzard warning at 8:42 am. on Thursday, Jan. 4 for northen and southern Middlesex County, northern and southern New Haven County, and northern and southern New London County. The blizzard warning is scheduled to expire at 1 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 5.

According to the blizzard warning alert issued by the NWS, the area should expect severe winter weather conditions with falling and blowing snow, strong winds and poor visibilities that could lead to whiteout conditions. Winds could gust to speeds as high as 45 MPH, and significant drifting of snow is expected.

Governor Dannel Malloy urged motorists to stay off the roads unless it was "absolutely necessary" during a news briefing at 8 a.m. to provide an update on the state's response to the storm.

"It is strongly recommended that Connecticut motorists stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary in order to allow DOT crews to clear highways as efficiently and safely as possible," Malloy said. "Employers that can allow people to work from home or alter their hours are encouraged to do so."

Malloy also noted that the state has 534 plow trucks and more than 250 private contrctor plow trucks ready to clear the roads.  The state police has deployed additional units on the roadways, and the National Guard has over 1,500 Guardsmen ready to support emergency operations if necessary.

In advance of the storm, schools along the shoreline closed their doors for a snow day. In Old Saybrook, a planned early dismissal day for Friday has been altered. Public schools there will now have a full day of school on Jan. 5.

Businesses and communty organizations have also closed for the day and canceled or postponed events.

To see a listing of local closings and cancellations,visit www.zip06.com/closings.

This story will be updated as conditions change and more information becomes available.