A winter storm on Thursday is expected to drop a half-foot of snow across the region and cause messy driving conditions. Snow began falling in the Portland area by late morning and is expected to pick up in intensity throughout the afternoon.

TIMING OF SNOW: Snow arrives late morning for most of Maine, quickly picking up in intensity. Heavy snowfall is likely early to mid afternoon, gradually tapering off heading into the evening. Snow will likely end as some freezing drizzle or sleet, an icy glaze is likely on top of the snow. All precipitation should be mostly over by 9pm.