Although some area school districts waited almost as long as possible to make the call, most again decided to play it safe Wednesday with yet another snowstorm on the horizon.

Visit www.theday.com/section/closures to see the latest closures.

As of 7:30 a.m., snowfall was minimal to nonexistent in much of southeastern Connecticut. However, National Weather Service warnings in place for the northern part of the region suggest the brunt of the storm won’t arrive until the evening.

“Plan on difficult travel conditions, including during the evening commute,” the warning for northern New London County reads. “Tree branches could fall. Be prepared for significant reductions in visibility at times.”

The winter storm warning calls for 4 to 8 inches of accumulation in most places, with some areas seeing up to 12.

Although it isn’t expected to see the same amount of snow, southern New London County also can expect a messy commute. According to a winter weather advisory, the region could see 2 to 5 inches of wet snow and wind gusts up to 50 mph.

The state intends to partially activate its emergency operations center at 11 a.m. Wednesday, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy said Tuesday night.

On Wednesday morning, Malloy announced all nonessential state employees will be sent home in staggered phases starting at noon.

The phases will occur in 15-minute intervals, a move intended to mitigate traffic issues.

Additionally, nonessential second-shift state employees have been instructed not to report to work.

In a news release, Malloy encouraged private companies to consider similar measures.

"Travel will be dangerous this afternoon with white-out conditions at times," Malloy said. "If you do not need to be on the road this afternoon and evening, please stay safely at home."

State employees can visit www.ct.gov/demhs/cwp/view.asp?a=1934&Q=287788 for the latest information.

Some Amtrak trains additionally are operating on modified schedules. Some area towns have issued parking bans ahead of the storm.