State upgraded to a Blizzard Warning

(WTNH) -- With heavy snow and strong winds in the forecast for Friday into Saturday, the entire region is getting ready for a storm that could pack quite a punch.

According to Gov. Malloy, all nonessential state employees should not report to work on Friday.

As of Thursday afternoon, Blizzard Warning had been issued for all of Connecticut, effective Friday afternoon into Saturday afternoon.

Forecasters expect snow to move into the area Friday morning, but it's the afternoon and night when things get ugly. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds is expected to create blizzard conditions overnight Friday into early Saturday morning. Travel could become difficult or even impossible during the height of the storm.

When all is said and done, 1 to 2 feet of snow is expected to be on the ground across most of Connecticut. 

In addition to the snow and wind, coastal flooding is another concern along the shoreline.

Blizzard conditions are met when winds over 35 MPH cause blowing and drifting snow for three or more consecutive hours.

For the latest forecasts and in-depth weather discussions, visit WXedge.com.