A major winter storm is expected to bring well over one foot of snow across Stamford, along with strong winds and dangerous cold. These conditions increase the risk of fires, carbon monoxide emergencies, power outages, and travel hazards.

The Stamford Fire Department urges all residents to take the steps below before, during, and after the storm to protect lives and property.

WINTER STORM EMERGENCY DECLARED

STAMFORD, CT – Mayor Caroline Simmons has declared a Winter Storm Emergency effective 8:00 AM on January 24, 2026, through 11:59 PM on January 27, 2025, unless sooner terminated.

During a declared snow emergency:

• On-street parking is restricted on snow emergency routes. Vehicles are subject to ticketing and towing.
• Free parking is available at the Bedford Street, Bell Street, and Summer Street garages.
• When 2 inches or more of snow is predicted, or during a snow emergency, alternate side parking is in effect on streets that normally allow parking on both sides.
• On odd-numbered dates, park on the odd-numbered side of the street.
• On even-numbered dates, park on the even-numbered side of the street.
• Vehicles must be moved by 8:00 AM the following day.

These rules allow plows and emergency vehicles to operate safely.

PREPARE BEFORE THE STORM

Travel and transportation

• Cancel non-essential travel.
• Finish errands before the snow begins.
• Fuel vehicles and keep tanks at least half full.
• Stock vehicles with blankets, food, water, a flashlight, and a phone charger.

Home, heat, and power

• Test smoke alarms and replace batteries if needed.
• Make sure you have one or more carbon monoxide detectors, with at least one on every level of your home and near sleeping areas.
• Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless gas produced by heating equipment, generators, and blocked vents. It can build up quickly during storms and cause serious injury or death without warning.
• If you need a smoke alarm or carbon monoxide detector, call 203-977-5500.
• Charge phones, battery packs, and radios.
• Test generators and use them outdoors only, far from doors and windows.
• Check fuel levels for generators and snowblowers.
• Set thermostats slightly higher in case of power loss.
• Know how to shut off water if pipes freeze.

Food, supplies, and medications

• Plan to remain home for at least 72 hours.
• Store at least one gallon of water per person per day.
• Have ready-to-eat food that does not require cooking.
• Refill critical prescriptions and medical supplies.

Safety and communication

• Enable emergency alerts on your phone.
• Place flashlights in every occupied room.
• Check on elderly neighbors before the storm starts.
• Bring pets indoors early.

DURING THE STORM

Travel

• Stay off the roads whenever possible.
• Do not rely on plows to keep up during peak snowfall.
• If you must drive, go slow and increase following distance.
• If stranded, stay with your vehicle and call for help when safe.

Power, heat, and fire safety

• Use generators outdoors only and far from openings.
• Never use grills, propane heaters, or ovens to heat your home.
• Use fireplaces safely and keep flues clear of snow and ice.
• Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that can burn.
• Turn portable heaters off when leaving the room or going to bed.
• Close unused rooms to conserve heat.

Snow and wind hazards

• Avoid going outside during heavy snowfall bands.
• Stay away from trees, utility poles, and power lines.
• Expect drifting snow and near-zero visibility at times.

Information and updates

• Monitor National Weather Service forecasts.
• Follow City of Stamford emergency and public works updates.
• Expect conditions to change rapidly.

AFTER THE STORM

Snow removal and physical safety

• Pace yourself while shoveling.
• Push snow whenever possible. Avoid lifting heavy loads.
• Take breaks every 10 to 15 minutes.
• Watch for chest pain, shortness of breath, or dizziness.

Clearing hazards

• Clear snow from furnace and dryer vents to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
• Shovel out nearby fire hydrants at least 3 feet in all directions.
• Do not bury hydrants when plowing or snow blowing. Blocked hydrants delay firefighting operations.
• Clear sidewalks carefully and watch for ice underneath.
• Stay clear of downed power lines and report them immediately.

Vehicles and travel

• Allow crews time to clear streets and neighborhoods.
• Watch for black ice, especially at intersections and shaded areas.
• Give plows and utility trucks extra space.

Community and recovery

• Check on neighbors, especially seniors and those without power.
• Report outages and blocked roads to local authorities.
• Restock supplies once travel is safe.

KEY MESSAGE

• Heavy snow.
• Strong winds.
• Cold temperatures.

Stay home. Stay informed. Stay safe.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Stamford Fire Department
629 Main Street
Stamford, CT

Emergency: 911
Non-Emergency: 203-977-5555
Public Relations and Detector Assistance: 203-977-5500