NBC Connecticut meteorologists are tracking a storm that will bring pouring rain, potentially damaging winds and coastal flooding before temperatures crash right before the holiday weekend.
Seymour has decided to closed schools on Friday because of the storm.
Rain will develop on Thursday afternoon. Some snow and sleet are possible in the Northwest hills before changing over to rain.
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It will be pouring rain Thursday night into Friday. One to three inches of rain is expected.
By Friday morning, winds will increase. Gusts of up to 50-65 mph are possible. The wind could cause power issues and property damage.
“We recognize the timing of this storm, right before Christmas, is less than ideal and we’re taking all necessary actions now so our team is ready to respond to whatever this storm may bring,” Steve Sullivan, president of Eversource Connecticut, said in a statement. “We’ll have crews prepositioned at our work centers throughout the state before the storm hits so they can immediately get to any damage locations and restore power as quickly as possible. Our employees who work in the field and behind the scenes are ready to give up their holiday time off to ensure our customers can enjoy their Christmas weekend.”
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Eversource is encouraging customers to assemble or restock a storm kit, which should include flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable foods, pet food and essentials and any needed medications.
The company said to make sure cell phones and devices are fully charged, create an emergency plan with family members and prepare to check on elderly neighbors and friends.
United Illuminating is also making preparation's for the incoming storm.
“Storms never come at a convenient time, and this storm is no different heading into the holiday weekend, but UI’s employees are answering the call to service, and are focused and committed on ensuring we are fully mobilized and prepared to respond to these storm conditions, with the safety and security of our customers our highest priority,” said UI President and CEO Frank Reynolds. “We recognize the rain, wind and freezing temperatures may impact our customers’ and employees’ holiday plans, but it’s critical everyone is prepared as this storm moves in, and we are committed to responding to outage situations as quickly and efficiently as possible to help our communities stay safe and warm throughout the weekend.”
High tides are also a concern on Friday morning between 8:30 and 11 a.m. The water rise will be up to 2.5 feet above what is normal. It will produce moderate to major coastal flooding damage.
Police in Fairfield are recommending that residents whose cars are in flood-prone areas to move them to higher ground.
After that, temperatures will crash on Friday afternoon. It will go from near 60 to the teens by Saturday morning.
Christmas looks sunny with highs near 28.
You can get the latest forecast anytime here.
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