Governor Lamont Advises Motorists To Avoid Travel Friday Evening Due to Snowstorm

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is encouraging motorists to avoid travel on Connecticut roads during the evening of Friday, December 26, 2025, due to the snowstorm that is anticipated to impact the state during the overnight hours. Anyone who must travel is urged to drive cautiously and allow snow removal crews the space needed to safely clear the roads.

As of noon today, the forecast indicates that Connecticut may receive as much as 6 to 12 inches of snow across the state, with the snow predicted to start late in the afternoon and picking up from light to very heavy between the hours of 5:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. Snowfall rates could exceed 2 inches per hour at times during the evening. It is expected to taper off around sunrise on Saturday morning.

"Shortly after sunset tonight, the snow is going to pick up quickly and come down at rates that can be dangerous while driving," Governor Lamont said. "If you need to travel, we strongly recommend leaving early and getting to where you need to be before sunset tonight. Our fleet of state snowplows are ready to clear the roads, and they can get their jobs done more easily the fewer vehicles there are out driving."

The Connecticut Department of Transportation's (CTDOT) fleet of 650 snowplows and specialized snow removal equipment is ready to deploy across the state. CTDOT crews are on standby and will remain active until the roads are clear of snow and ice.

"Our crews and contractors are ready to clear the roadways and will be out in full force," Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto said. "If you must travel during the storm, please slow down, use caution, and leave extra space between your vehicle and others. Please give plow drivers the room they need to work safely and efficiently."

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.

Winter driving safety tips

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.
• 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.
• Stay Updated: Check weather reports and road conditions before traveling. Consider delaying trips if conditions are hazardous. Visit CTroads.orgfor real-time traffic and road conditions.

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

For emergency management news and resources, visit the state's CTPrepares website at ct.gov/ctprepares.