HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - A fast-moving snowstorm is heading into the region and could dump 7 to 14 inches of snow on Connecticut.

The National Weather Services has issued a winter storm warning from 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday.

Gov. Dannel P. Malloy is asking all non-essential first- and second-shift employees to stay home Thursday due to the storm. The Democratic governor says he will activate the state's emergency operations center at 5 a.m. to continue coordinating the state's response.

Meteorologists say snowfall rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour will be possible at times.

Malloy is urging all residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.