SHARE

Storm Watch Upgraded To Warning As Powerful Nor'easter Nears Ridgefield

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. — Did you put away your snow shovel? Not so fast. The most significant snowstorm of the winter is expected to hit Fairfield County starting late Monday night.

A look at areas where Blizzard Watches and Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for Tuesday.

A look at areas where Blizzard Watches and Winter Storm Warnings are in effect for Tuesday.

Photo Credit: National Weather Service

A Blizzard Watch has been issued for the Connecticut coastline, and the Winter Storm Watch previously issued for Northern Fairfield County was upgraded to a Winter Storm Warning late Sunday afternoon.

The powerful nor'easter is forecast to bring 12 to 18 inches of snow — or more! — to Fairfield County. Howling winds will keep the snow blowing and cause poor travel conditions. 

The warnings go from midnight Tuesday to midnight Wednesday, the National Weather Service said.

This power full storm, which will rock the East Coast from Washington, D.C., to Maine, has the potential for:

  • Significant snowfall, coming at rates of 2 to 3 inches per hour;
  • Strong winds, of 17 to 25 mph with gusts up to 40 mph; and  
  • Coastal flooding, occurring at high tide on Tuesday afternoon, with water 2 to 3 feet above normal levels.

The wind will be strong enough to knock down tree limbs and cause power outages.

Travel conditions will be dangerous, with accumulating snow, poor visibility and strong winds. Whiteout conditions are possible.

The gusty winds could knock down tree limbs and lead to power outages.

Before the storm arrives, Monday will also be chilly with a high struggling to reach the freezing mark under partly sunny skies.

Snow is expected to arrive very late Monday night or in the early morning hours Tuesday with snow heavy at times during the day and snow showers lingering into Wednesday.

Residents across Fairfield County should be prepared for school and work cancellations, parking bans and travel difficulties.

The state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol, which went into effect on Friday, is being extended through 8 a.m. on Thursday, March 16, Gov. Dannel 

"If anyone is in need of shelter, call 2-1-1 to find the nearest available location,” Malloy said. 

A list of shelters and warming centers that are open across Connecticut can be located by calling 2-1-1 or visiting www.211ct.org.

to follow Daily Voice Ridgefield and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE