West Hartford Urges Storm Vigilance, Announces Myriad Closings: UPDATE

WEST HARTFORD, CT — The West Hartford Office of Emergency Management is urging residents to prepare for heavy snowfall and strong winds expected to impact the area from Sunday into Monday.

The Town of West Hartford will issue a formal snow emergency parking ban effective at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 22.

Officials said the storm is likely to create hazardous travel conditions and could result in power outages across town.

Residents are encouraged to monitor forecasts and updates from the National Weather Service and local authorities throughout the weekend.

Sunday night, the town announced several closures in West Hartford on Monday, including:

• West Hartford Libraries (Noah Webster, Faxon, Bishops Corner)
• Veterans Memorial Skating Rink
• Cornerstone Aquatics Center
• Elmwood Community Center
• Elmwood Senior Center
• Bishops Corner Senior Center

Emergency management officials advised residents to fuel vehicles, charge cell phones and other electronic devices, and stock essential supplies — including food, water, medications, batteries, and pet supplies — sufficient for several days.

A townwide parking ban will be in effect.

Vehicles left on the street during the ban are subject to towing at the owner’s expense, officials said.

Residents, particularly those with flat roofs, are also advised to monitor snow accumulation.

Excessive snow loads can stress structures and may require safe removal to prevent dama

Officials are asking residents to avoid unnecessary travel and to use caution and allow extra time if travel is required.

Staying indoors and off roadways will allow plow and emergency crews to operate safely, according to the advisory.

Residents are reminded to use space heaters safely and never operate generators, grills or other fuel-burning devices indoors.

Officials also encouraged residents to check on elderly neighbors, family members and others who may need assistance.

Power outages should be reported directly to utility providers. Residents should call 911 for life-threatening emergencies.

After snowfall ends, residents are advised to use caution while shoveling, take frequent breaks, and avoid overexertion.

Under the town ordinance, snow should not be blown or pushed into the street.

Officials also warned residents to watch for falling ice or snow from roofs and trees.

Pedestrians walking where sidewalks are unavailable should wear reflective clothing and walk against traffic.

Residents are asked to clear a 3-foot radius around any fire hydrant near their home.

Additional preparedness information is available on the town’s website.

Updates on potential municipal closures or shelter operations will be shared through the Town of West Hartford website, Everbridge alerts, and official social media channels as conditions warrant.

Trash/Recycling Delay

Due to the snowstorm, there will be no trash or recycling collection on Monday, Feb. 23.

The collection will be delayed by one day. Monday’s area will be picked up on Tuesday, and Tuesday’s area on Wednesday, and so forth.

People should place barrels at the curb by 6 a.m.

More information on storm preparedness can be found at this link.