The first big snowstorm of the year has settled down but temperatures are expected to drop to six degrees tonight, with wind chills of 15-below late tonight and into tomorrow. Sengekontacket Pond began to freeze over late Friday afternoon.

The Vineyard experienced approximately eight inches of snowfall, high winds and frigid temperatures but for the most part the Island is getting back to normal. Most of the roads are clear and the Steamship Authority is running on a trip by trip basis.

A major winter storm carrying high winds, snow and icy temperatures was expected to peak overnight, leaving between 6 and 12 inches of snow in its wake, according to the National Weather Service. Schools and government offices were ordered closed Friday in anticipation of hazardous driving conditions.

Gina deBettencourt takes over as new P.A. Club president, succeeding longtime club president Tricia Bergeron, who led the club for 22 years. She’s been involved in club activities for 15 years, most recently serving as vice president of the organization.

Carefully stripping away small sections of paint at the Old Whaling Church in Edgartown, the muralist Margot Datz was looking for guidance for her next design.

A strong winter storm is expected to begin on Thursday morning, with heavy snow and frigid temperatures. Island schools will have early dismissals on Thursday; regional high school lets out at 11 a.m., grammar schools at noon and the charter school at 12:30 p.m.