Winter Storm Targeting Tolland: What Residents Need To Know About Timing, Services

TOLLAND, CT — Tolland is bracing for a blast of winter weather in the form a strong system that is expected to bring a significant snowfall and bitter cold to Tolland County from Saturday through Monday, the National Weather Service forecast shows.

After a frigid Saturday with highs in the low teens under sunny skies, bitter wind chills and dangerously cold conditions will continue ahead of an incoming storm, According to the NWS. Snow is likely to begin late Sunday morning, with precipitation increasing in intensity through the afternoon and evening, according to the NWS.

The fun will start Sunday after 8 a.m., according to the forecast.

NWS forecasters said Friday morning that moderate to heavy snow is expected Sunday into Monday, with total snow accumulations of about 4 to 8 inches possible in the county — including a possible 3 to 7 inches Sunday and an additional 4 to 8 inches Sunday night into Monday.

Monday will remain cold with continued chances of snow, tapering off late in the day or Monday night, according to the NWS.

Temperatures through the weekend and into early next week will stay well below normal, with highs near the low 20s and lows in the single digits, according to the NWS. Wind gusts Saturday and Sunday could add to the harsh conditions, according to the NWS

Local officials and meteorologists have warned that travel could be hazardous and disruptions likely, as the storm combines cold air with significant snowfall. Updates are expected as the system approaches.

One of the first thoughts on the minds of residents is, "Will schools be closed?" Here is a typical scenario on the decision-making process from one north central Connecticut superintendent:

"The district administration understands that our decision to open or close schools due to inclement weather has an impact on families. We also understand that our students are better served — both academically and socially — by being in school. However, as always, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students and staff," the superintendent said.

The decision to open or close schools during inclement weather or hazardous conditions, he said, is based on a careful analysis of all relevant factors, such as:

Information on road conditions from the local department of public works,
that and local police and a town's respective school bus transportation company.

"We give careful consideration to the most dangerous roads in the district," the superintendent said. "Even if a street looks clear, travel elsewhere in the district may be dangerous, especially in the higher elevation areas of a town. Also, we consider that many high school students drive to school."

Superintendents prefer not making a decision based solely on weather predictions, which are not always 100 perecent accurate.

"But sometimes this is unavoidable. The amount of snow and ice accumulated and forecasted is a major factor in the decision to close school. Temperature and wind chill factors are important as
students wait outside for the bus or walk to school," he said.

Building and grounds conditions need to be "a safe, healthy, and secure environment for
all students and staff," he said.

School systems often work together, often sharing information on conference calls before a decision is made, the superintendent said.

In anticipation of the storm, municipal and public safety officials met this week for what Town Manager Brian Foley called a pre-snowstorm prep meeting." Present were Tolland Fire/EMS offials, DPW supervisors and town services staffers.

"Said Foley, " Prepping for possible power outages, emergency response challenges, possible/likely closures, parking bans, communication and extended storm staffing. Be prepared, plan for the worst, hope for the best."

Casella Waste will be delaying collection services by one day and operating on a holiday schedule for the safety of residents and their employees.

1. Monday pickups moved to Tuesday
2. Tuesday pickups moved to Wednesday
3. Wednesday pickups moved to Thursday
4. Thursday pickups moved to Friday
5. Friday pickups moved to Saturday

On Sunday, town officials said, "Town Hall offices, Library, Probate Court, Recreation Center and Senior Center will be closed on Monday due to the snowstorm. A parking ban is in effect until Tuesday afternoon. We ask residents to stay safe and please stay off the roads until DPW crews have had a chance to clear the snow."