Chatham, Mass. (AP) — An early spring storm is bringing gusty winds that are whipping snow across portions of Massachusetts and eastern Maine, bringing near-whiteout conditions to Cape Cod.

Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard are expected to bear the brunt of the storm as it strikes Massachusetts, perhaps dropping up to 10 inches of snow.

Less snow was expected farther to the north and east in Massachusetts, with the Boston area getting just an inch or two.

Schools across Cape Cod closed, while ferry and flight service to the islands was canceled. State courts in the region also closed.

Winds that could gust up to 70 miles per hour is blowing snow horizontally, stinging the faces of those few who dared venture outside.

Blizzard warns are in effect in Massachusetts and Maine.

Maine Gov. Paul LePage ordered state offices in Washington and Hancock counties closed. Forecasters say snowfall in Washington County could reach 20 inches.