Updated: Roads Are Slick But Traffic Is Light

The wind is definitely picking up and the snow is blowing, but residents appear to be playing it safe and staying off the roads, police Lt. Michael T. Finkelstein said this afternoon.

Finkelstein said there have been reports of cars spinning out and several cars that had to be plowed or towed out after getting stuck, but no reports of serious crashes or injuries.

"This is probably one of the best weekends to have this happen," he said, because there is no school Monday because of the Christmas break. "It makes it easier for us."

Finkelstein said conditions are expected to worsen through the night and residents should not drive unless absolutely necessary.

The National Weather Service is predicting heavy snowfall, strong winds and near zero visibility later this afternoon.

Trucks were dispatched to sand the main roads and hills starting at 6 a.m., according to Highway Superintendant Jim Martin.

The latest forecast from the service:

"This afternoon: Total daytime snow accumulation of 5 to 9 inches possible.

Tonight: Snow and widespread blowing snow before 4am, then snow likely and widespread blowing snow after 4am. The snow could be heavy at times. Some thunder is also possible. Low around 25. Windy, with a north wind between 25 and 31 mph, with gusts as high as 55 mph. Chance of precipitation is 100%. New snow accumulation of 6 to 10 inches possible.

Monday: Snow likely and widespread blowing snow before 10am, then widespread blowing snow and a slight chance of snow between 10am and 1pm, then widespread blowing snow after 1pm."