'Significant Winter Storm' Expected; Tuesday Morning Commute Could Be 'Treacherous'

The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Northern Connecticut, describing a "significant" storm that will deliver "a period of heavy snow followed by sleet, freezing rain and then all rain" on Monday night into Tuesday.

"The final snowfall totals will be determined by the timing of the transition from all snow to mixed precipitation," the weather service said. "This will result in treacherous travel conditions later tonight into at least Tuesday morning."

Snow accumulations could be from 4 to 8 inches, along with a coating of ice, across Northern Connecticut, the weather service said. Strong winds are predicted as well.

In West Hartford, the weather service predicts all snow beginning as early as 8 p.m. Monday evening and and mixing with sleet at about 3 a.m. Precipitation should turn to all rain by 2 p.m., with a high near 39 expected. Total snow/sleet accumulation of 4-6 inches is predicted.

The Winter Storm Warning is in effect from 9 p.m. Monday to 11 a.m. Tuesday.

This winter has been marked by a series of significant storms causing school closures and delays, road closures, and disruptions to business. As of Monday, the last day of school for West Hartford Public Schools is scheduled for June 25.

"I'm hoping we can have a delay," said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Karen List. "I don't want to put anyone at risk but I don't want to have another snow day. It's all about student safety," she said.

Graduation day for the class of 2013 will be officially confirmed on April 1. Even seniors are required by the state to have 180 days of school, but after April 1 the graduation date will become fixed and will not be impacted by school closings, List said.