A winter storm blanketed Connecticut overnight, leaving a messy mix of snow and ice that created dangerous driving conditions for Thursday morning. As a result, numerous schools across the state have announced delays, giving road crews extra time to clear highways and ensure safer travel for students and commuters.
The National Weather Service had issued a winter weather advisory from 7 p.m. Wednesday to 9 a.m. Thursday, warning that about an inch of snow would fall before transitioning into a light glaze of ice. This combination has led to slick roads, slower commutes, and school schedule changes across the state.
Which Schools Are Affected?
Several schools and colleges across Connecticut have issued delayed openings to give students and faculty extra time to navigate the icy conditions.
Connecticut State Community Colleges:
- Asnuntuck Community College – Opening at 10 a.m.
- Capital Community College – Opening at 10 a.m.
- Manchester Community College – Opening at 10 a.m.
- Middlesex Community College (Middletown and Meriden campuses) – Opening at 11 a.m.
- Naugatuck Valley Community College (Waterbury and Danbury campuses) – Opening at 9 a.m.
- Northwestern Connecticut Community College – Opening at 11 a.m.
- Tunxis Community College (Farmington and Bristol campuses) – Opening at 11 a.m.
High Schools & Regional Schools:
- Mercy High School, Middletown – 2-hour delay
- Xavier High School, Middletown – 2-hour delay
- Regional School District 16 – 2-hour delay
Universities:
- Western Connecticut State University – Opening at 10 a.m.
Local officials are advising students and faculty to check directly with their schools for any additional updates, as weather conditions may cause further delays or closures throughout the morning.
What’s Making the Roads So Dangerous?
This storm brought a one-two punch of snow and freezing rain, making for extremely slick conditions on highways and secondary roads.
- Overnight snowfall of about an inch created an initial layer of winter weather.
- Freezing rain followed, forming a thin but dangerous glaze of ice on roadways, sidewalks, and bridges.
- Temperatures hovering near freezing have made it difficult for road treatments to work effectively.
Even with road crews working through the night, black ice and slippery conditions remain a major concern, especially during the morning commute.
What Should You Expect on the Roads?
Drivers should prepare for slow travel, especially on highways, overpasses, and untreated roads.
Highways like I-91, I-84, and I-95 may experience delays due to icy patches and accidents.
Local roads and sidewalks remain slippery, increasing the risk of slips and falls.
Bridges and overpasses are especially dangerous, as they freeze first and stay icy longer.
State officials are urging residents to leave extra time for their morning commutes, drive slowly, and avoid unnecessary travel if possible.
How to Stay Safe in This Winter Weather
Give yourself extra time – Roads will be slick, and traffic may be moving slowly.
Drive with caution – Keep a safe following distance and avoid sudden braking.
Watch for black ice – It’s nearly invisible but extremely dangerous.
Stay updated – Check local news and weather reports before heading out.
Dress warmly – If you have to be outside, bundle up against the cold.
When Will Conditions Improve?
The worst of the storm has passed, but icy conditions will persist through the morning hours. Temperatures are expected to remain near freezing early in the day before slowly warming up by the afternoon.
While road crews continue salting and plowing, residual ice on less-traveled roads and sidewalks will make conditions tricky for pedestrians and drivers alike.
