Storm Update December 17-18

Good afternoon, we are currently monitoring the approaching powerful storm that is heading towards New England and into our region tonight and Monday with heavy rain and strong winds along with the threat of coastal flooding and power outages.

The town’s Emergency Management Team along with the First Selectman's office conferred with other state and municipal leaders along with the Governor's office in a zoom call at 1 PM. At 2 PM we were updated with the latest on the storm. We are keeping an eye on things and prepared to take action if necessary.

Currently, the forecast calls for rain beginning Sunday afternoon and intensifying overnight into Monday morning. Along with the rain, the wind will increase beginning around 2 am with strongest gusts up to 50 mph expected between 5-10 am. With heavy rain and wind during the morning commute, please take extra care and give yourself extra time to reach your destination. If traveling by air, please make sure you check in with your airline as flight delays are expected. High profile vehicles should take precautions.

With the High Wind Watch posted for the coastline, we expect power outages with several limbs and trees downed because of the wet unfrozen soil. 

You’ll want to make sure you secure any loose outdoor items like holiday decorations.

Around 1.5-3” of rain is expected with some isolated higher amounts. A flood watch has been posted for much of the region for Monday. Some minor urban flooding may occur along with minor river and stream flooding.  Rainfall rates are expected to stay below 1” per hour.  Minor coastal flooding is expected at the time of high tide just after 1:00 AM in eastern Long Island Sound. Low lying roads may be flooded.   

Please be aware that a Flood Watch is in effect for all of Connecticut. A Wind Advisory has been issued for southern portions of Middlesex County. Weather models continue to point toward a significant flooding event for the state with the worst flooding expected in areas to the east of Hartford.

If traveling, please avoid driving through any standing water. Do not approach any downed power lines; assume they are live wires, and call 911 to report. Eversource has added additional crews to handle any power outages due to downed trees and wires.

Please stay safe. We will send updates as new information comes to light.

Carol Jones, First Selectman