(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today is advising Connecticut residents to prepare for the first significant statewide snowfall the state has experienced so far this winter season. As of this afternoon, meteorologists say that current models indicate most of the state will receive about four to ten inches of snow beginning late in the afternoon on Sunday, January 19, 2025, and continuing into Monday morning.

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead and be prepared to stay off the roads during the height of the storm.

The Connecticut Department of Transportation’s fleet of more than 600 snowplows and specialized snow removal equipment is ready to deploy across the state. Crews are on standby all weekend and will remain active until the roads are clear of snow and ice.

“We’ve only had relatively light snow so far this winter, but this is the first storm where most of the state can expect to see an accumulation of more than several inches,” Governor Lamont said. “This storm is being forecast well in advance, which is why now is the time for motorists to plan ahead and get to where they need to be before the snowfall begins on Sunday afternoon. Stay home if you can and watch football. If you need to drive, take it slow, and if you approach a plow, please keep a safe distance and allow them do their jobs.”

“If you must travel during this storm, please slow down, use caution, and leave extra space between your vehicle and others,” Laoise King, deputy commissioner of CTDOT, said. “Most importantly, give plow drivers the room they need to work safely and efficiently. Crowding the plow makes their job harder and delays the process of clearing roads. For your safety and ours, don’t crowd the plow.”

Winter weather presents significant safety challenges for drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022 there were 498 fatal traffic crashes and an estimated 32,213 injury crashes that occurred when there was snow and/or sleet conditions at the time of the crash. CTDOT emphasizes that preparation is essential for safe winter driving.

Tips for staying clear of snowplows

Snowplow operators are critical in keeping roads safe during winter storms. Drivers should:

Maintain distance: Stay well behind snowplows and avoid their blind spots, particularly in the back corners.
Avoid passing plows: Passing snowplows is dangerous, as it reduces visibility and risks collisions with thrown snow or the plow.
Give operators space: Allow plenty of room for snowplow operators to do their work effectively and safely.

Tips for winter driving safety

To ensure safety during icy and snowy conditions, CTDOT urges the public to:

Slow down: Adjust your speed to match road conditions and allow extra stopping time.
Keep a safe distance: Increase the space between your vehicle and others to allow for sufficient reaction time.
Equip winter tires: Use winter tires to improve traction on slippery roads.
Stay updated: Check weather reports and road conditions before traveling. Consider delaying trips if conditions are hazardous. Visit CTroads.org for real-time traffic and road conditions.
Prepare an emergency kit: Carry essentials such as blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and a first aid kit in your vehicle.
Never drive impaired: Driving impaired is illegal and endangers everyone on the road.

For additional information on snowplow awareness and winter driving tips, visit www.nhtsa.gov/winter-driving-tips.

To subscribe to alerts from Connecticut’s emergency notification system, visit ct.gov/ctalert.