Greenwich officials are advising residents to take precautions — and preferably stay indoors — as a frigid blast of Arctic-like air blankets the region tonight.
In email and voice-mail announcements Police Capt. Mark Kordick said, "Dangerous driving conditions will be present when roadways freeze over and so-called “black ice” forms. Similarly, there is significant potential for ice accumulations on walkways, sidewalks and outdoor steps and stairs."
According to Kordick, the freezing rain that fell Sunday caused numerous crashes and falls on icy sidewalks and steps.
Here is Kordick's announcement in its entirety:
"Evening temperatures are predicted to drop well below freezing tonight. Melting snow from today’s warm temperatures and rainfall have left many walkways and roadways wet. Dangerous driving conditions will be present when roadways freeze over and so-called “black ice” forms. Similarly, there is significant potential for ice accumulations on walkways, sidewalks and outdoor steps and stairs. Yesterday morning we experienced similar conditions from a freezing rain event and many motor vehicle collisions and slip and fall injuries – some serious – were reported.
"Temperatures are predicted to fall below 32 degrees a few hours after dark and remain below freezing all daytomorrow. Accordingly, the Town of Greenwich is advising all residents to exercise extreme caution if moving about outdoors or driving – especially after 7:00 pm this evening. The frail elderly, people who are unsteady on their feet or those who are mobility impaired will want to exercise special care in icy environments.
"Beyond the potential for icing conditions, bitterly cold temperatures tonight and tomorrow will represent a danger to those outside without proper clothing. Rapid temperature drops can also negatively affect underground water mains, pipes in buildings and other infrastructure. Please be wary of these dangers.
"All of the Town’s public safety agencies are fully staffed and prepared for what could be a significant freezing event during the overnight period. Public Works crews are out now treating roadways and they will remain on the job through the night. Even so, drivers should make every effort to get off the roads by early evening and everyone should use extra care when moving about outdoors after temperatures drop below freezing.
"Thank you for your attention and please exercise caution during what could be an extraordinarily cold and icy period."
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
