Snow: Is this it?

For the lack of a better word: yup.

Hype was building for this storm nearly ten days ago - declaring it possibly one of the largest storms, by accumulation, that we’ve seen in the past decade. However as the sun prepares its descent and Westporters begin to climb out of their shelters tonight, one might notice there isn’t several feet of snow on the ground, or 18 inches, or in some yards: even just 8 inches. With snow bands making their way eastward, most chances of accumulation snow will have gone with the wind by 8 this evening. Although no official counts have been released, those same high winds are making the task of measuring the light snow even more challenging.

This weather pattern was difficult to track, as the National Weather Service’s NYC office had described yesterday, however it seems that their forecast of anywhere from 5-10 inches was about what most of Westporters are experiencing tonight. Wind forecasts were accurate as heavy gusts continue to bring wind chills below zero in the community.

As of 5:00 PM major roadways, such as Route 1, Route 15, and I-95, are mostly cleared of heavy snow accumulations in at least one travel lane, but remain very slick with residual snow and ice. Many side streets and private roadways may still remain snow covered as crews try to tackle the frigid surfaces and rapidly growing snow drifts. Some sidewalks within major business or transit zones are also in the process of becoming shoveled and salted, however they also remain very slick with ice and snow drifts.

Some local businesses are opening their doors tonight for dinner service - be sure to call the business directly for operating hours while being aware that parking in business districts may be diminished.

Cold Conductor

A Metro North train operator was bundled up as they visualized the platform as the New Haven bound train departed Saugatuck’s station. WestportLocal.com photo

Thomas Jankoski, 70, Died; Former Westporter, “active doer in the community”

Thomas A. Jankoski, 70, graduated from this life with honors on Friday, January 21, 2022 in Scottsdale, Arizona. He was welcomed home by his son, T.J. Jankoski, his brother, Henry R. Jankoski, and his parents, Henry T. and Olga Jankoski.

Tom was born in Westport, Connecticut where in his youth he enjoyed flying model airplanes, ice skating, boating, fishing, and clamming. Tom attended Jacksonville University, graduating in Marketing. For nearly 40 years, Tom owned Sun States Sales and touched the lives of many in offering his extensive knowledge in paint sundries.

Tom led a happy life with a strong faith in the Savior Jesus Christ and was a dedicated member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. He was an active doer in his community, always eager to lend a hand to those in need. Tom was a loving and supportive father, business owner, baseball enthusiast, and sportsman who was a highly skilled sailor, golfer, and fisherman.

Tom is survived by his daughters, Tahlea Jankoski and Elizabeth Dafoe (Jerran Dafoe), sister Carol Barrett (Richard Barrett), cousins Helen Jankoski, Billy Jankoski, Kenny Kertesz, Richard Kertesz, and niece Andrea Jankoski (Germany).

The celebration of Tom's life will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints on Saturday, February 5, 2022.

216 Years of Snow Storms for the Henry Munroe Home

Cross Highway’s Henry Munroe home, built in 1806, looks as strong as the day it was built as it weathers yet another New England winter season. The home was awarded the Westport Historical Society Preservation Award in 2015. WestportLocal.com photo