Ridgefield Braces For Snow, Bone-Chilling Temps And Weekend Travel Woes

RIDGEFIELD, CT – A blast of Arctic air followed by a potentially significant snowstorm is headed Ridgefield's way this weekend, bringing frigid temperatures, accumulating snow and community-wide preparations through Sunday, Jan. 25 and Monday, Jan. 26.

Weekend Weather Snapshot

• Saturday, Jan. 24: Expect bitter cold with highs in the low teens and wind chills plunging well below zero — a Cold Weather Advisory kicks in late Friday night into Saturday morning, according to the National Weather Service.
• Sunday, Jan. 25: A Winter Storm Watch is in effect from early Sunday through Monday evening as snow moves in. Forecast models show 7–11-plus inches of snow possible, with heavy bands and low visibility at times.
• Monday, Jan. 26: Snow continues into the day, tapering off later, with chilly skies lingering.

Local Prep & Safety Moves

• Town crews are gearing up: Ridgefield Public Works is preparing plows and salt trucks for overnight clearing ahead of the storm. Residents are encouraged to clear snow safely and check on neighbors.
• Parking & travel: Town officials have residents to refrain from parking on the street until the storm is over and streets are cleared: "Streetside parking during a winter storm creates hazardous conditions for our town workers who work tirelessly through the day and night to keep our streets clear and safe. It also impends their ability to thoroughly clear the roadway. Do not plow or shovel snow into the roadways, as it creates hazardous conditions for all motorists."
• The Ridgefield Office of Emergency Management and the Community Emergency Response Team recommend that residents make a solid preparedness plan for their people, pets and property. This includes knowing where to get accurate and timely information.
• Sign up for Ridgefield Alerts, where you will receive updated information from the First Selectperson's Office and the Office of Emergency Management. There is an opt-in segment where you can sign up for other town related news such as road closures.
• Cold prep: With temperatures dipping brutally low, pets, pipes and outdoor plants need attention — bring animals inside and consider insulating outdoor faucets.

Closures & Event Cancellations

• While Ridgefield schools have not announced closures yet, the heavy snow risk and treacherous roads make closures likely Sunday and Monday.
• Nearby regional events, like the Fire & Ice Winter Festival in Stamford, have already been canceled due to extreme cold and forecasted weather — a sign of what might come locally.

What Residents Should Know

• Stay updated: Town alerts and the National Weather Service will provide ongoing forecast updates as snow totals and timing become more precise.
• Prep early: Avoid last-minute errands before the storm hits; winter storm conditions often make travel hazardous.
• Safety first: If travel is necessary during heavy snow, keep an emergency kit in your vehicle and let someone know your route.