Blizzard Slams Connecticut with 2 Feet of Snow and High Winds

State of emergency declared as storm causes widespread power outages and travel disruptions

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Connecticut experienced its first official blizzard since January 2018 as heavy snow combined with high winds and near-whiteout conditions early Monday. The storm has dumped over 2 feet of snow in some areas, caused widespread power outages, and led to the declaration of a state of emergency and a commercial vehicle travel ban.

Why it matters

Blizzards are rare in Connecticut, with the last one occurring in 2018. This storm has caused significant disruptions, with thousands of power outages, major road closures, and the shutdown of public transit and air travel. The heavy, wet snow has also raised concerns about the risk of shoveling-related injuries and cardiac emergencies.

The details

The blizzard has brought wind gusts over 50 mph and snowfall totals exceeding 2 feet in some southeastern Connecticut towns. Thousands of power outages have been reported, with Eversource and United Illuminating working to restore service. State and local officials have issued parking bans, towed hundreds of vehicles, and urged residents to avoid unnecessary travel. The storm has also forced the closure of schools, government offices, and businesses across the state.

  • The blizzard warning was issued across Connecticut on Sunday and remained in effect through Monday.
  • As of 3:30 pm on Monday, over 2 feet of snow had been reported in some southeastern Connecticut towns.
  • The state's commercial vehicle travel ban went into effect at 5 pm on Sunday and was lifted at 4 pm on Monday.
  • Power outages peaked at over 15,000 customers on Monday morning but have since declined as crews work to restore service.
  • The state's severe cold weather protocol was activated on Sunday and remained in effect through Tuesday at noon.

The players

Ned Lamont

The Governor of Connecticut who declared a state of emergency and issued a commercial vehicle travel ban in response to the blizzard.

Eversource

The state's largest power company, which reported over 14,500 outages at the storm's peak and has been working to restore power.

United Illuminating

The power company serving the greater Bridgeport and New Haven areas, which reported over 900 outages during the storm.

William Turner

The state's emergency director, who provided updates on the storm response from the State Emergency Operations Center.

Fire Safe CT

A statewide initiative that issued safety tips for residents dealing with power outages and the use of generators during the storm.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.