By Emma Barhydt
New Canaan is wrapping up the week on a warmer-than-average note. Friday, January 17, will bring partly sunny skies with a high of 38°F and a low of 31°F. Winds will remain manageable, with gusts staying under 15 mph.
Saturday, January 18, takes a turn for the dreary, featuring overcast skies and a breezy afternoon rain. Highs will again reach 42°F, with the rain tapering off by evening as temperatures settle at 32°F. Wind will be a bit stronger today with gusts maxing out at 27 mph.
Sunday, January 19, continues the warmer trend with a high of 38°F, but the day will be marked by rain, flurries, and a chance for snow accumulation in the afternoon. Exercise caution while driving. By evening, a blast of arctic air will roll in, sending temperatures plummeting to 17°F and bringing a renewed chance for snow as winter tightens its grip for the week ahead.
A deep trough of frigid air descending from Canada, “that’s going to set the stage for the coldest air we’ve seen all season for a lot of us,” says meteorologist Ryan Hall. The week will be generally clear and sunny with wind gusts maxing out at 25 mph, but generally forecasted to have wind speeds in the single digits. When temperatures drop, residents can stay warm at designated heating centers in New Canaan.
Monday, January 20’s high of 25℉ will be accompanied by clear skies and steady winds averaging 8 mph, with occasional gusts reaching 24 mph. Overnight, the mercury will plummet to 6℉ under mostly clear skies.
Tuesday, January 21 will deliver the harshest cold of the week, with daytime highs just making it to 20℉ and nighttime lows dipping to a chilling 7℉. Wind speeds will slightly ease, and the day will be bright and sunny.
Temperatures are on the rise, with a steady warming trend expected through the end of the week. Wednesday will feature clear skies, a high of 21°F, and a low of 14°F. Thursday ushers in more sunshine, with temperatures climbing to a high of 29°F and a low of 20°F. By Friday, the warming continues under sunny skies, reaching a high of 33°F and a low of 20°F. Each day will bring a noticeable boost in warmth as the week progresses.
These temperatures are significantly below the seasonal average for New Canaan. The coldest day this year is expected to be 13℉ colder than the historical average, marking an unusually harsh January cold snap. The national weather service recommends to, “Wear layers of loose-fitting, lightweight, warm clothing, and a hat. Mittens, snug at the wrist, are better than gloves. Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from extreme cold. Try to stay dry and out of the wind.”
To protect your home during extreme cold, insulate exposed pipes and allow faucets to drip to prevent freezing and potential pipe bursts. Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors to ensure they have adequate heat and essential supplies. A quick visit or phone call can make a significant difference in their safety and comfort. Don’t forget about your pets—bring them indoors to keep them safe from the harsh temperatures. With temperatures this low, roads can become icy even without precipitation. Drive cautiously, avoid sudden braking, and keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, a flashlight, and snacks.
For additional assistance, residents can contact the New Canaan Police Department’s non-emergency line at (203) 594-3500. Heating center updates and further resources will be shared on the Town of New Canaan website. If you are experiencing an emergency please call 911.
