Connecticut First Day of Fall: Warm Sunshine, Temps in 70s–80s

The first day of fall is rolling in for Connecticut, but it’s not bringing the usual crisp air. Folks from New Haven to Hartford will wake up to warmth that feels more like July than late September.

On Monday, the autumnal equinox lands at exactly 2:19 p.m., officially kicking off the new season. Still, the calendar doesn’t match the forecast—expect highs in the mid-70s to around 80 degrees, a streak of above-normal warmth that’s set to linger through the week.

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Summer-Like Warmth Kicks Off Connecticut’s Fall

Late September usually means sweater weather, especially up in Torrington and the Litchfield Hills. Not this year.

Monday’s highs hit the mid-70s statewide, and Tuesday could even push 80 degrees in inland spots like Manchester and Middletown. That’s definitely not your typical autumn vibe.

The Autumnal Equinox Arrives with a Warm Welcome

The autumnal equinox marks the official start of fall, when daylight and nighttime hours are just about even. For Connecticut, that moment falls Monday afternoon at 2:19 p.m.

Still, it’ll feel much closer to summer, which is great news for anyone not quite ready to pack away the shorts.

Weather Outlook Through Midweek

Tuesday’s warmth brings a bit of a shift, though. Clouds will move in as a weak weather system heads in from the west.

This system could bring scattered showers by Tuesday evening, especially for towns from Waterbury down to Bridgeport. Meteorologists don’t expect a washout, though—just a few passing showers.

Lingering Showers and Above-Normal Temperatures

Some showers might linger into Wednesday, but they’ll be light and scattered. Even with a few raindrops, temperatures stay well above average across Connecticut.

Expect highs in the mid to upper 70s almost everywhere—from the New London shoreline to the hills of Litchfield County.

NOAA’s Warmth Prediction for the Week Ahead

The NOAA Climate Prediction Center expects this warm pattern to stick around through the weekend. That means folks in Stamford, Danbury, Norwich, and beyond can count on mild days—pretty ideal for hiking, apple picking, or just strolling by the water.

Temperature Variations by Region

Forecasts show some slight differences in high temperatures depending on where you are:

Connecticut shoreline: Highs between 69–74°F—great for soaking up the scene in Mystic or Old Saybrook.
Inland areas: Highs from 70–76°F, which makes for a surprisingly warm start to fall in places like Enfield and Glastonbury.
Litchfield Hills: Highs from 70–74°F, giving New Milford and nearby towns a nice break before autumn’s chill finally moves in.

What This Means for Connecticut Residents

Warm fall weather can be a treat, stretching out the season for outdoor events, festivals, and sports. Towns across Connecticut are making the most of it—from Hartford’s riverfront walkways to Stamford’s busy waterfront, people are out and about enjoying the sunshine.

Tips for Enjoying the Warm Start to Fall

With above-average temps sticking around, here are a few ways to take advantage:

Take a scenic drive through the Litchfield Hills before the leaves hit their peak.
Pack up a picnic and head to a shoreline park in New London or West Haven.
Check out a harvest fair in Middlesex County or swing by a farmers market in Fairfield County.
Enjoy a comfortable evening with some outdoor dining in Mystic or Branford—why not?

Looking Ahead

The first week of fall in Connecticut is starting off warm. Cooler air will roll in once October arrives.

Right now, folks from Torrington to Waterbury can soak up some late-summer heat. It’s a last chance to enjoy a little extra sunshine before autumn really takes hold.

If you’re in Hartford, Stamford, or tucked away in Litchfield County, now’s the time to get outside. These golden days won’t last long, but honestly, isn’t that part of the charm?

Connecticut’s weather keeps us on our toes—never dull, always a little unpredictable.

Here is the source article for this story: Ringing in fall with warm sunshine. Here’s how warm Connecticut will get for its first autumn days.

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