Warming Centers Open In Norwalk Ahead Of Expected Winter Storm

NORWALK, CT — Norwalk has activated its warming centers ahead of a winter storm expected to bring a mix of heavy downpours and windy conditions to the area beginning Thursday evening.

In a news release Wednesday, Mayor Harry Rilling said the forecast for the the upcoming storm, which could potentially impact the area ahead of the holiday weekend, includes a fast-moving line of showers and storms that has the potential to bring damaging winds as it blasts east.

Additionally, 45 - 60 mile per-hour wind gusts are expected to begin late Thursday evening into Friday, Rilling said.

See also: CT Weather: High-Impact Storm May Cause Power Outages, Flooding

Rilling said temperatures will rapidly fall behind the winter weather front, with some wet flakes and sleet possible as it clears the area. This will set the stage for at least scattered areas of ice to develop across surfaces that remain wet as temperatures fall below freezing.

Bitterly cold temperatures will then take effect overnight on Friday and into the holiday weekend, Rilling said.

Anyone in need of shelter should call 2-1-1, which will allow community members to connect with local shelters, transportation to a shelter and community-based providers.

Residents in need of warming options can also access the following:

• The SoNo Collection Mall
• The Norwalk Police Department Community Room

Power outages are also possible due to high winds and residents are encouraged to prepare, Rilling said. This includes having mobile devices charged and flashlights if needed.

Residents are reminded not to run generators inside their home or use grills, ovens or stoves as heating sources. Residents are also asked to secure or bring their outdoor holiday decorations indoors and deflate any holiday inflatables so they don’t become airborne.