Winter storm Stella: Everything you need to know

Just when you thought we were out, winter pulls us back in. A winter storm that the Weather Channel has helpfully dubbed Stella—Stella!—is set to dump up to a foot of snow on the Boston area by Wednesday morning.

What’s more, the storm will bring with it high winds and therefore drifts well beyond the height of the flaky accumulation itself. In short: an awful mess.

Things could get so bad that they will surely remind residents of the belt of blizzards and snowfalls that pelted the region during the winter of 2015. We won’t reach that season’s aggregate snowfall total, but Stella will make winter 2017 memorable.

Here’s what you should know:

• The City of Boston is issuing regular updates on the storm, and the state is stressing the dangerous driving conditions the storm will likely bring.
• Public and private schools, including pre-schools and after-school programs, are pretty much closed Tuesday region-wide.
• As of 6:30 a.m., the MBTA is operating regular service except (1) shuttle buses replace Mattapan trolley service; (2) all ferry service is canceled Tuesday; (3) and commuter rail will operate Blue Line service.
• Logan Airport is basically at a standstill. Check with your airline re: any flights on Tuesday or Wednesday.
• Eater Boston is keeping a running tab of what dining, delivery, and takeout options are open during the blizzard.
• In general, yes, you do need to shovel the sidewalk in front of your home or business—or face a fine.

More updates to come...

• Boston in the snow: Photos to get you in the mood for Thursday’s storm [Curbed Boston]