The NBC Connecticut meteorologists have issued a First Alert for a windswept rainstorm that started Christmas Eve and will continue through Christmas morning. Strong winds and heavy rain began to be felt across Connecticut late on Christmas Eve with the weather picking up intensity through the overnight hours.
A High Wind Warning and a Flood Watch has been issued for the entire state.
The strong storm system is bringing with it heavy rain and potentially damaging winds. The weather started to ramp up around midnight. The heaviest rain will continue to fall overnight on Christmas Eve and taper off late Christmas morning. Leftover rain will clear throughout the afternoon.
The area of low pressure will cut to the west of Connecticut meaning we will be on the warm side of the storm. Temperatures will be in the low 60s for Christmas morning but will start falling throughout the day.
The main concern with this storm is the threat for damaging winds. Some of our computer guidance suggests winds could gust over 60 mph early Christmas morning which may cause power outages.
With the chance for high winds and possible power outages, our First Alert Weather team is encouraging residents to:
- Secure or take down holiday decorations
- Make sure devices are charged
- Check your generator
- Clear drainage areas
In addition to the wind, heavy rainfall is another concern. It appears over 2-3 inches of rain could fall in parts of Connecticut. We'll also see rapid snow melt so minor flooding is certainly possible. With the warm temperatures, snow will not be an issue with this storm.
Skies will clear for the weekend with nice sunshine Saturday and Sunday with colder temperatures in the 30s.
Expect a very foggy Christmas morning!
