Hazardous Weather Outlook Issued for Suffield

Writing about the first snowflakes or the possibility of the first very minor snow accumulation of the season is a lot more exciting than sharing that rain is in the forecast. But in Connecticut we should be more excited for the much-needed rain that is expected to fall this afternoon and evening after the snowflakes have long turned to plain rain.

Because some snowflakes are falling in parts of Connecticut this morning, the National Weather Service has issued a “Special Weather Statement” for northern Fairfield and northern New Haven counties. Up to an inch of slushy snow and sleet accumulation is possible here before the changeover to all rain by noon, the weather service states.

A “Hazardous Weather Outlook” has been issued for Hartford and Tolland counties for some periods of snow late this morning and into early afternoon. Roads will likely remain wet though as temps will remain above freezing, the weather service states. Very minor snow accumulation is possible.

Once snowflakes end the real news centers on the potentially three quarters to one inch of rain Connecticut may see Thursday night. Close to 90 percent of the state is classified as being in a severe drought.

WTNH News 8 Meteorologist Gil Simmons

wrote on social media, “A little bit of snow changing to rain! It will be a raw, cold and rainy afternoon. 30s & 40s most of the day. Dress warmly and have your wet weather gear! It all dries out tomorrow and Saturday. Have a great day!”

• See also: CT Meteorologist Enters Plea in Child Porn Case; Country Club Sued; Dog Fight at Hotel: CT News

Here’s the updated forecast via the National Weather Service:

Thursday: Any sleet and snow turns to rain this afternoon with highs in the low to mid 40s. Rain begins to pick up this afternoon and continues to intensify this evening and ends early Friday morning.

Friday: Partly sunny and temps near 55.

Saturday: Beautiful, mostly sunny and a high near 60 degrees.

Sunday: More rain, after 1 p.m., especially in southern Connecticut. High temp near 60. Rain ends Sunday evening. Currently, there is a 60 percent chance of rain in southern Connecticut. In northern Connecticut, there is only a 30 percent chance of rain currently on Sunday.

Written by Brian McCready (Patch Staff)

Photo credit: Chris Dehnel