Region braces itself for drop in temperatures

Just as the region heaved a collective sigh of relief with the worst of superstorm Sandy behind it, a new threat is emerging.

With 241,257 households and businesses across the state still without power, as of 7:10 a.m. Friday, those who have gone without heat since the historic storm knocked out the electricity are bracing themselves for rapidly dropping temperatures.

WTNH meteorologist Gil Simmons says that early forecasts suggest that another storm could strike the region on Wednesday, dumping a wintry mix of rain and sleet on the area.

According to Simmons, highs of 50 to 54 degrees are projected for Friday, but then temperatures won't crack the 50s again for the rest of the weekend. An overnight low Friday in the low 30s is expected.

This is particularly problematic for seniors living above the ground floor of apartment buildings with non-functioning elevators due to the loss of power.

Connecticut Light & Power and the United Illuminating Company, the state's two main power companies, have repeatedly maintained that their crews are feverishly working to restore power, but it seems unlikely that 100 percent restoration will happen before the chilly weather arrives.

Here is the rest of Simmons' eight-day forecast:

TODAY: Clouds and sun with a brief sprinkle or shower possible. Breezy & mainly dry. Highs 50-54. Feeling like 40s with the wind all day. Winds: W-NW 10-25 mph.

TONIGHT: Passing clouds. Lows 31-36.

SATURDAY: Sun & clouds. A cold wind. Highs around 50.

SUNDAY: Sunny. Highs 47-49.

MONDAY: Sunny. Highs only in the 40s to near 50.

TUESDAY: Clouding up. Highs 45 to 48.

WEDNESDAY: Big storm offshore. A Cold shoreline rain. Snow/Rain Mix inland? More wind and waves along LI Sound. Stay tuned. Highs 40-47.

THURSDAY: Clearing and chilly. Highs in the 40s.

FRIDAY: Bright and chilly. Highs 45-50.

For a more detailed forecast visit http://www.wtnh.com/subindex/weather.