First Selectman Jim Marpe and the Westport Emergency Management Team released the following message to update and inform residents about the current situation and cleanup efforts in the aftermath of Tropical Storm Isaias.
Eversource considers this storm to be the 4th largest ever experienced in Connecticut, and Governor Lamont has declared a State of Emergency. It was a “wind event” with sustained winds of 54 mph and gusts of 63 miles per hour. Fortunately, the flooding risk never materialized as rainfall was measured at ½ inch. The Emergency Management Team anticipates that the storm and its aftermath will require multiple days of clean up and restoration in all areas of Town.
Statewide, 617,000 customers are without power, with 12,226 Eversource customers (97%) without power in Westport. The significant damage and high percentage of those without power and other utility services indicates that Westport may have been the hardest hit municipality in the state.
Residents are advised to remain safe at home to allow for an expedient and safe clean up. Many homes sustained significant damage. A large number of roads remain closed and impassable due to uprooted trees, large limbs, debris and downed wires.
Department of Public Works crews will not touch, move or remove downed trees until the utility companies address downed wires first. Eversource crews are assessing and evaluating the safest way to manage the many downed wires and then work cooperatively to restore power safely to neighborhoods throughout town.
All of Westport has been impacted by this event, with varying degrees of damage and need for immediate attention and prioritization. Unfortunately, this means that it may be days until full power is restored.
For your safety and the safety of work crews who are trying to clear the roads and restore power:
- Do not go sightseeing! Roads must be kept clear for emergency vehicles.
- Do not drive over or go near downed wires.
- Do not drive or walk around yellow barrier tape or barricades.
- Stay well clear of downed power lines: 25’ at least!
- Be vigilant about downed trees and tree limbs hung up overhead.
If you must drive, use caution, expect delays and detours, and be considerate of other drivers and emergency crews. DO NOT drive around tape or barricades – they have been erected for your safety. Without working traffic signals, intersections must be approached as if a STOP sign was there. Make a full stop at all intersections and treat this as a four way STOP.
Please be aware of possible carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators.
- All generators (portable and installed) should be used in well-ventilated locations outside and at least 10-15 feet away from all doors, windows, and vent openings.
- Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.
The Department of Human Services (DHS) reminds residents to please check on your friends and neighbors. This weather emergency, combined with COVID-19 concerns, is stressful and may have a profound effect on our most vulnerable citizens. We are a resilient, caring community that looks out for one another. If you know of a neighbor who is elderly or particularly vulnerable, please reach out to him or her and offer assistance from a safe distance. DHS staff is available Mon-Fri from 8:30 am-4:30 pm at 203-341-1050 to provide information and resources, although it's most important to rely on your natural supports at this time. Please practice patience and consideration as we are all doing the best we can under the circumstances.
After 4:30pm, residents can call the CT information hotline by dialing 211 or go to www.211ct.org for mobile crisis support.
Only call 911 for true medical emergencies.
Mental Health Crisis Text Line - Text “SHARE” to 741741
SAMHSA’s National Helpline – 1-800-662-HELP (4357)
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-273-TALK (8255)
Due to COVID-19, Westport's cooling centers, charging stations, and shelters are currently not available, so it is essential to make specific plans to address your needs.
We will continue to provide updates to residents as soon as they are available. Please recognize that there are many who are working as quickly as possible to effectively and efficiently clear the roadways and restore power. Most of us are without power, so we are in this together. You are not alone.
And please remember, we are still fighting the COVID-19 virus so practice social distancing and use face coverings if you choose to leave your home. Please help protect our community as we work together to get through the pandemic and this latest weather crisis. Remember, you are safe at home; not stuck at home. We appreciate your anticipated patience and cooperation.
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