Storm Report: Snowfall Amounts Increase as Storm Nears
Editor’s Take
This winter storm is being described as a “blockbuster” by some local meteorologists. It might not be the largest storm we'll ever experience, but for many - this may be the biggest one in recent memory, and will no doubt cover the community by Saturday evening. Forecasters have slowly increased their predictions as the Westport community prepares for another New England snow storm.
The flakes will begin to fall shortly after sunset tonight, however heavy snow will begin shortly after midnight - strengthening through the morning hours before tapering off towards Saturday’s sunset. Winds will also become powerful on Saturday, with the height of the winds coming around Saturday afternoon - with 45 MPH gusts possible. Travel will be difficult Saturday; all local and State agencies are now advising residents remain home and off of the roadways to allow for emergency access and safe snow removal.
The National Weather Service’s latest report shows approximately 10 inches may cover the Westport community, with a 10% chance of the extreme accumulations of 18 inches or more. However Westport sits on the fringes of two forecast areas - with lower amounts forecast to our immediate West, and higher amounts forecast to our immediate East. The chances of Westport being covered in over a foot of snow will depend on the difficult to track snow bands, which will become more clear as the overnight hours trudge onwards.
Higher amounts are currently the trend in this afternoon’s updates for multiple weather agencies, such as the State of Connecticut’s Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection who are forecasting 18 - 24 inches of snow for the Westport community.
Keep snow shovels inside and near your doors to help those inside exit - especially when snowdrifts become tall against doorways. ,
Keep cars parked away from plowing routes and facing your driveway’s exit in order to avoid becoming stuck.
High accumulations and even higher snow drifts will allow furnace and other home exhaust pipes to be covered - causing heating systems to fail or creating carbon monoxide emergencies. Locate all exhausts now and continuously check them as snow falls to confirm they are clear and open. Duct tape placed on your home’s siding above any low exhaust pipes will assist utility workers or homeowners identify buried pipes.
Remain home and away from roadways to allow snow plows and emergency vehicles safe passage. Remember that during blizzard conditions, pedestrians or stuck vehicles may be difficult to see or avoid while driving. Roads are plowed in a specific order - click here to review the order from the Town of Westport Highway Department.