Snow Before Halloween? It's No Trick!

Some pretty nasty weather is coming our way.

A winter storm could bring “significant” snowfall on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures tomorrow are forecast to be in the low 30s, creating conditions that are likely to lead to a mixture of rain, ice and snow as a low pressure system passes through. Upwards of four to eight inches of snow is predicted, with pockets of 8 to 10 inches possible depending on the storm’s path. 

Paul Piorek, the News 12 weatherman, expects a coating to three inches along the coast and upwards of six inches inland, according to his @news12ctpaul Twitter account.

Winds are expected to pick up, too, with gusts of up to 60 miles per hour possible. That, coupled with heavy wet snow and trees still flush with leaves, could lead to downed limbs and power outages. Neither CL&P nor the United Illuminating Company have issued statements about the impending storm. 

If it materializes, the first major snow event comes a bit early for Connecticut. The weather service said it’s rare for a storm like this in October. 

Governor Dannel P. Malloy warned residents to be prepared for possible power outages due to heavy snow falling on trees. Malloy’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection staff have been in touch with power and utility companies to discuss preparations ahead of the storm.

“Without ringing the alarm bells about snow in Connecticut, the reason I’m warning residents about this particular storm is because of the possibility of power outages,” said Malloy. “So today and tonight, think about what you’d need if the power went out – batteries, battery-powered radios, flashlights and of course ways to keep warm – extra clothing and blankets and be sure to check your generator if you have one. Hopefully this won’t be a blockbuster storm, but it is rare to have this type of potential so early in the season.”