Winter Storm Warning

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POWERFUL STORM FORECASTED TO GENERATE A LONG PERIOD OF STRONG WINDS AND HEAVY RAINFALL OVER NEW ENGLAND, COMING THROUGH OUR AREA THURSDAY NIGHT AND CONTINUING THRU FRIDAY.

Strong southeast winds are forecast to gust to 45 –60 MPH at times starting at midnight Thursday night and continuing during the day on Friday potentially causing numerous power outages. The strongest winds are expected in and around Stonington. The heavy rain (2” –4”) is likely to cause minor to moderate flooding. In addition, astronomical tides will be at their monthly highs and moderate coastal flooding may occur during high tide late Friday morning. Very cold air is forecast to move into the state Friday afternoon with temperatures remaining below freezing until next Tuesday. This may cause a hazard for any homes that remain without power over the weekend.

The Stonington team, including the First Selectman’s Office, Police, DPW, Human Services and Emergency Management, met Wednesday afternoon to ensure all necessary preparations are underway and the communication lines will remain strong. This storm is still two days away and some additional changes to the model forecasts are still likely. We will keep you all informed as we are.

What should you do to prepare?

  • Be sure you have charged all necessary devices such as cell phones.
  • Be sure to have some bottled water, canned food, and pet food available.
  • Secure all outdoor objects that could become airborne by high winds.
  • Prepare a storm kit with flashlights, batteries, and other essential items.
  • Plug sensitive computer and electronic equipment into surge protectors.
  • If you use a generator to power your home during outages, make sure you have fuel. Never run a generator in a confined space such as a garage, shed or basement.
  • Check-in with friends, family and neighbors.
  • Sign up for the Town’s Emergency Alert System at www.stonington-ct.gov/home/pages/stonington-alerts

 

What should you do if there is an outage?

  • Contact Eversource directly at 1-800-286-2000. You can also sign up to receive storm outage updates through text, email or phone at www.eversource.com.

What should you do if there are downed power lines?

  • Please stay clear of downed power lines.   Contact Stonington PD to report downed lines at 860-599-4411.

In the event of an emergency?

  • Dial 911

Please continue to monitor the news/weather announcements. Stay safe.