A winter storm warning is in effect from noon today to 6 a.m. Wednesday, with total snow accumulations of 8 to 14 inches expected, according to the National Weather Service.

Wind chills of 5 below zero are expected tonight. Snow is expected to begin falling late this morning.

In preparation for the expected cold and snowstorm, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy on Monday activated the state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol, directing the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security and the departments of social services, mental health and addiction services and housing to coordinate with 2-1-1 and homeless shelters to ensure that the state's most vulnerable people are protected.

"Throughout the winter season, we continue to take the necessary steps to make sure that we can take care of those in need of shelter, especially our state's most vulnerable populations," Malloy said in a news release. "I urge anyone in need of shelter to call 2-1-1 and encourage local communities to consider opening warming centers or other facilities to help people in need."

Today's forecast calls for temperatures ranging from a high of 24 to a low of 13. Wednesday's are predicted to range from 20 during the day to 10 degrees at night.