Connecticut weather forecast: Rain turned to snow, followed by cold. Here’s what you need to know about what’s next
Snow tapered off after lightly falling for hours Thursday morning, causing officials to cancel or delay classes and keeping many drivers off the roads.
But while the snow stopped dropping for most, the temperature will not. Frigid weather is coming.
What took so long for snow to fall?
The temperature dropped gradually as the morning went on, and light rain started turning to snow before dawn in places. Snow was falling throughout the state by 9 a.m.
How much fell?
Only a few inches, tops. The National Weather Service said less than an inch would fall in the Hartford area.
What was the impact?
With snow-covered roads and reduced visibility, it was expected to affect the morning commute. The state Department of Transportation did not report any crashes on state roads.
Metro-North Railroad asked train riders to allow for extra travel time and to be careful on station staircases and platforms.
Gary Lessor, chief meteorologist with the Connecticut Weather Center at Western Connecticut State University, said the light, fluffy snow likely wouldn’t break tree limbs and cause power outages.
How cold will it be?
The temperature dropped to the 20s Thursday morning and was expected to rise into the 30s later. It will be very cold early Friday and Saturday, with lows in the single digits, the National Weather Service said. The wind chill factor will be below zero overnight Thursday and throughout the day Friday.
Will it stay cold?
Yes, and the forecast of continued cold weather prompted Gov. Ned Lamont to extend the state’s severe cold weather protocol through Feb. 2.
Over the next two weeks, highs in the state are generally expected to be in the 20s, with lows in the single digits or teens, according to a news release from his office.
When the protocol is activated, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 211 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure anyone who needs to come in out of the cold may do so. Transportation is provided as well.
Christine Dempsey may be reached at cdempsey@courant.com.
