Winter Storm Targets Westport: Latest Forecast, Cancellations, How To Prepare

WESTPORT, CT — With a major winter storm expected to sweep through the region, Westport and other Connecticut communities are taking precautions to keep roads clear and residents safe.

"This storm has the potential to significantly impact travel and daily activities," said Westport Fire Chief Nick Marsan. "Now is the time for residents to prepare, complete errands early, and plan to stay off the roads once snowfall begins so emergency and public works crews can operate safely."

Gov. Ned Lamont has already activated Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol, and Westport, in coordination with the Westport Fire Department and Office of Emergency Management, is closely monitoring the major winter storm forecast to impact the region beginning Sunday morning, January 25, with hazardous conditions expected to continue into Monday.

Southern Connecticut is expected to get between eight and 14 inches of snow, with locally higher amounts possible, according to the National Weather Service. Sleet may mix in with the snow in southern areas of the state, reducing the total accumulation, and coastal Connecticut may end up getting the lower end of the range.

Westport Public Schools will make a final decision on Sunday whether to close schools on Monday, according to Schools Superintendent Thomas Scarice.

" Winter Storm Benjamin is forecast to begin early Sunday, January 25, 2026, and continue into Monday, January 26, 2026," Scarice wrote in a message to the school community. "Due to the expected hazardous travel conditions, all Westport Public Schools facilities will be closed on Sunday, January 25. All activities scheduled for that day are cancelled or will be rescheduled.

"We will continue to monitor the storm closely throughout the weekend. Decisions regarding school operations for Monday will be communicated on Sunday.

"I would like to thank, in advance, our custodial and maintenance staff for their efforts to prepare our schools for reopening once the storm concludes. Their work last weekend was outstanding, and we are grateful for their continued dedication.

"Please stay safe this weekend and watch for additional updates."

From the town's announcement:

Forecast & Safety Reminder
Forecast models currently indicate 12 to 18 inches of snowfall across Southern New England. Snow is expected to begin Sunday morning, become heavy during the day, and taper off Monday morning. Wind gusts of 20 to 30 mph may result in blowing snow and periods of near-zero visibility, leading to major travel impacts on roadways and air travel. While the snow is expected to be light and powdery, widespread power outages are not anticipated at this time.

Assistance for Residents
Westport residents experiencing hardship due to cold weather are encouraged to contact Westport Human Services at 203-341-1050 during regular office hours (Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.).

“Extreme cold can be dangerous, especially for seniors, residents without reliable heat, and those facing hardship. Our Human Services team is ready to help connect residents with warming centers and other critical resources. Please check your furnaces now and schedule fuel deliveries ahead of the storm. If you or someone you know needs assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out.”
— Elaine Daignault, Director of Human Services

Designated Warming Centers & Hours:

• Westport Center for Senior Activities: 21 Imperial Ave Thursday-Friday, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Saturday/Sunday - Closed
• Westport Library: 20 Jesup Road Thursday-Friday, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sunday, 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
• Westport/Weston Family YMCA: 14 Alan Raymond Lane Thursday-Friday: 5:30 AM-9:00 PM | Saturday-Sunday: 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.
• MoCA Westport: 19 Newtown Turnpike Friday 12-5 p.m.; Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday 12–5 p.m.

After-Hours & Overnight Shelter
For shelter needs outside of warming center hours or for overnight accommodations:
• Dial 2-1-1 — Available 24/7 for shelter referrals and transportation assistance
• Dial 9-1-1 — For immediate medical emergencies only

Public Safety Recommendations

• Avoid unnecessary travel Sunday afternoon through Monday morning
• Allow DPW crews space to clear roadways safely
• After the storm, clear a 3-foot radius around nearby fire hydrants
• Prepare for extended cold by checking heating systems and supplies
• Monitor official Westport channels for updates
• Stay informed Text 06880 to 888777 to receive Westport alerts via Nixle

Westport Emergency Management will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates as necessary throughout the duration of the protocol.