Hartford, Connecticut — A rapid temperature drop Thursday evening is setting the stage for patchy fog and dangerous black ice across the Hartford area, as an otherwise mild January stretch continues to deliver above-average warmth, rain chances, and shifting conditions heading into the second weekend of the month.
After climbing into the 40s and even touching the 50s earlier in the day, clear skies and calm winds allowed temperatures to fall quickly after sunset.
Black ice concerns overnight into Friday morning
As temperatures slipped through the 30s and into the 20s, forecasters warned that patchy fog combined with sub-freezing conditions could lead to black ice forming on untreated surfaces by daybreak.
“With temperatures below freezing, areas of black ice may form on untreated roads, sidewalks, and walkways by early Friday,” forecasters cautioned.
Drivers and pedestrians are urged to use extra caution, especially on bridges, shaded areas, and sidewalks during the early morning commute.
Friday stays unusually mild for January
Friday, January 9, marks a notable point in the climatological calendar for Hartford. On average, January 9 is when the region’s normal high temperature drops to 35 degrees, where it typically stays for about three weeks before slowly climbing again.
Despite that, Friday will feel far from typical.
Forecast highs are expected to reach between 45 and 50 degrees, keeping temperatures well above seasonal averages as the workweek comes to a close.
The day will begin with some sunshine, but clouds are expected to steadily increase through the afternoon.
“Cloud cover will increase ahead of scattered showers expected toward or after sunset,” meteorologists said.
Rain returns for the second weekend of January
The milder-than-average pattern continues into the weekend, but rain becomes more of a factor.
Saturday is expected to be mostly cloudy, with periods of rain developing from late afternoon into the evening. Despite the wet conditions, temperatures will remain above normal, with highs topping out in the mid-40s.
An umbrella will likely be needed for Saturday evening plans.
Cooler, breezy conditions on Sunday
Sunday brings a change in air mass as a cold front moves through the region.
While an early lingering shower cannot be ruled out, conditions are expected to improve as the day goes on, with partial clearing developing by afternoon.
Behind the front:
- Breezy winds are expected
- Temperatures turn cooler but still mild, with highs between 40 and 45 degrees
Though cooler than Saturday, Sunday’s temperatures will remain near or slightly above average for mid-January.
Dry stretch to start next week
Looking beyond the weekend, the forecast turns quieter.
From Monday through at least midweek, the Hartford area is expected to remain dry and storm-free.
- Monday: Bright and dry, highs in the upper 30s, closer to seasonal norms but still slightly above average
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny with highs returning to the low to mid-40s
- Wednesday: Partly to mostly cloudy, with temperatures again in the mid-40s
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Watching late-week cold and snow potential
By Thursday, temperatures are expected to drop back into the 30s, and forecasters are beginning to monitor the potential for snow as colder air becomes more established.
While details remain uncertain, this timeframe is being watched closely as winter conditions may try to reassert themselves.
What to keep in mind
Residents are encouraged to:
- Watch for black ice Friday morning
- Plan for rain Saturday evening
- Enjoy the mild temperatures while they last
- Stay alert for possible colder and wintry changes later next week
As January progresses, the weather pattern remains active, with brief warmups followed by reminders that winter is far from over.
How are these changing conditions affecting your plans around Hartford? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
