Northern CT prepares for high impact, long duration winter storm

VERNON, Conn. (WFSB) - Preparations are already underway for the high impact storm system coming to CT next week.

Vernon’s Emergency Management Director says it’s going to be all hands on deck.

“We’re preparing for the worst, hoping for the best,” said Michael Purcaro, Town Administrator and Emergency Management Director for Vernon.

The forecast shows the potential for some heavy snow from Monday through Tuesday and into Wednesday.

That is why he says crews are loading up their trucks with salt now.

A slow snow season so far is good news for the city’s salt stash.

But he is still cautioning drivers to be extra careful on the roads since they haven’t had as much practice driving in the snow this season as they normally do.

“When you get a big storm and there hasn’t been a lot of other storms in the season, it makes it particularly dangerous I think and it’s important for us to remind the public to take your time,” said Purcaro. “It has the potential for heavy rates of snowfall in a very short duration at points which could lead to very limited visibility”

Eversource is also keeping a close eye on the forecast.

As with any hazardous weather approaching our area, we are closely monitoring several forecasts and making preparations as necessary to respond to any potential power outages. This storm is forecasted to bring heavy snow and high winds to Connecticut and we are taking steps to ensure that our crews and equipment will be ready. Just as we prepare for severe weather year-round, we also encourage our customers to prepare ahead of time for any storm. Now is a good time to consider creating or replenishing a storm kit, and customers can find more information about storm safety and preparedness on Eversource.com.

Like many school leaders, Union school district’s superintendent is also keeping a close eye on the forecast.

“It’s a storm the kids have been waiting for pretty much all winter season,” said Steve Jackopsic, Superintendent of the Union School District.

They have not decided if there will be a snow day yet, but if the forecast holds up, Jackopsic says it will be an easy decision.

“I think it’s going to be a pretty easy decision. Probably be made sometime during the day on Monday,” Jackopsic said.

CT residents are also taking steps to prepare.

Justice Ninson of Windsor is planning a supply run.

“You’ve got to make sure you have simple supplies like food, water, maybe a back up heating system,” said Justice. “You don’t drive to go get those when it starts snowing, you get it before it snows.”

While he and plenty of others swarm store shelves in the coming days, Britt way will likely be packing his bags.

“I’m thinking that I’m going to be on a plane on Monday to go to Michigan so it doesn’t really matter to me,” said Britt Way, Ashford. “I’m shutting off the water and making sure that my tenants are all set to go before I leave.”

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