Governor Ned Lamont Issues Blizzard Warning for Connecticut
HARTFORD, CT – Governor Ned Lamont is urging all Connecticut residents to prepare for potentially dangerous blizzard conditions beginning Sunday evening, February 22, 2026, and continuing through Monday, February 23, 2026. The rapidly evolving weather forecast indicates a significant storm system is headed towards the state, threatening widespread disruption and hazardous travel conditions.
Significant Snowfall and Powerful Winds Expected
Current weather models predict substantial snowfall across Connecticut. Southern counties may receive between 16 to 22 inches of snow, while northern areas could see 10 to 16 inches. Some forecasts even suggest higher accumulations are possible. However, the most concerning aspect of this storm is the anticipated strong wind gusts, expected to impact the entire state, potentially exceeding 50 miles per hour.
Moderate coastal flooding is also expected during high tide. The National Weather Service defines a blizzard as a storm with heavy or blowing snow, sustained winds of 35 mph or greater for at least three hours, and visibility frequently reduced to a quarter mile or less.
Winter Storm Alerts in Effect
As of this afternoon, the National Weather Service has issued the following alerts:
- Winter Storm Watches for northern Connecticut
- Winter Storm Warnings for southern Connecticut
- Blizzard Warnings along the coast, effective from 6:00 a.m. Sunday to 6:00 p.m. Monday
“The forecast changed very quickly over the last 24 hours, and now it appears that we have a significant storm heading in our direction that is likely to bring blizzard conditions,” Governor Lamont stated. “In addition to high rates of snowfall, the particular concern with this storm are the very strong wind gusts, which will make travel extremely dangerous and will cause visibility to be very low. I am urging everyone to plan ahead and stay off the roads on Sunday night and through at least Monday morning.”
Emergency Operations Center Activation
Governor Lamont has ordered a partial activation of the Connecticut Emergency Operations Center (EOC) beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. The EOC, located in Hartford, serves as the state’s central hub for emergency management, coordinating resources and strategies among state agencies and partners. The state’s five regional emergency management offices will also be partially activated.
This partial activation means key state agencies responsible for emergency management will be coordinating continuously throughout the storm. A full activation, requiring participation from additional agencies, remains on standby.
Travel Advisory and Snow Removal Efforts
The Connecticut Department of Transportation (CTDOT) has over 600 snowplows and specialized equipment prepared for deployment statewide. Crews will work tirelessly to clear snow and ice and restore safe travel conditions. Motorists are strongly advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the peak of the storm.
If travel is unavoidable, please follow these safety tips when approaching a snowplow:
- Stay well back of snowplows.
- Do not attempt to pass a snowplow.
- Be aware of the snow cloud created by plows.
For more information about winter driving safety, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
Stay Informed
Stay up-to-date with the latest information:
- CTroads.org: For real-time updates on road conditions.
- Public Transportation Alerts: Sign up for notifications from your transit operator.
- CT Alert: Subscribe to emergency alerts at ct.gov/ctalert.
- CTPrepares: Visit ct.gov/ctprepares for emergency management news and resources.
Governor Lamont and state officials are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Connecticut residents during this severe weather event.
