UPDATED: 3 p.m.

Yes, it's true. Another huge snowstorm has slammed the region.

And this one's going to be nasty. And long.

Heavy snow started falling around rush hour Tuesday and is expected to continue through Wednesday night.

Up to 20 inches of snow could fall on Tewksbury when it's all said and done, according to the National Weather Service. The NWS has issued a Winter Storm Warning that began at 6 a.m. Tuesday and will continue through 1 a.m. Thursday.

The weather could force schools to close again Wednesday, which would mark the fourth snow day of the winter.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. John O'Connor said that five snow days are built into the schedule at the start of the year, meaning that adjustments to the school calendar do not have to be made ... yet.

"We have five days built in but we still have all of February to get through," said O'Connor.

Late Tuesday morning, the superintendent called for an early release with a staggered schedule.

Monday night O'Connor had hoped to avoid an early release, saying that it often causes problems for parents.

"It would take something extraordinary for me to send the students home early," he said.

Tuesday morning turned out to be extraordinary and the call was made.

The storm contributed to several minor accidents during the day, according to Tewksbury Police. None of the accidents resulted in any injuries.

Up to eight inches of snow could accumulate by the evening commute.

Wednesday morning will start off with freezing rain during the morning commute. It will change to snow and fall heavier than Tuesday, potentially another foot of snow by Wednesday night.

Winds will gust up to 15 mph Tuesday and pick up to 25 mph Wednesday, making for near-blizzard conditions.

Check back with Tewksbury Patch for updates on the storm, as well as a list of closings and cancellations.

For tips on driving safely in the snow and ice, click here.

For tips on driving safely near plow during the storm, click here.

For tips on keeping your pets safe during the harsh weather, click here.

For safety tips from MEMA, click here.

For tips to avoid injury while shoveling, click here.