Darien Officials, Eversource Discuss Storm Response

DARIEN, CT — Darien officials met with Eversource community relations personnel this week to discuss storm response and how to prepare for future weather events, after last month's cold snap and storm brought heavy flooding and power outages to Darien right before Christmas.

First Selectman Monica McNally noted during Monday's Board of Selectmen meeting that the storm had a significant impact at the state level, and was categorized as a "Level 4" event for Eversource.

But she had issues with how the utility company handled power restoration. Hundreds of Darien residents were in the dark as temperatures plummeted and holiday plans were in limbo.

"During the power outage, Eversource provided little information on restoration timing," McNally said. "This was over Christmas, and it was really difficult for a lot of our residents... Information is really important, especially on the holidays."

McNally was joined by Emergency Management Director Mark McEwan and Director of Public Works Edward Gentile during the meeting with Eversource.

"I'm thankful that Eversource came in, and that our people were able to have a discussion to try and see how we could keep this from happening in the future," McNally said.

Eversource spokesperson Mitch Gross told Patch the meeting with Darien officials "was an excellent opportunity" to review the company's restoration process, and how necessary repairs to the distribution system are prioritized with the goal of restoring the most customers as quickly and safely as possible.

"We make every effort to provide restoration information as soon as it is available. It’s important to note, most of the power outages in Darien were restored within 24 hours of the storm hitting Connecticut that Friday morning," Gross said. "We view every storm as an opportunity for improvement and will do a thorough review of our processes and procedures in this case as well."

McNally also Darien EMS Post 53 will be evaluated to see if it fits the definition of a critical facility.

Gross said part of the state's emergency response plan outlines a standardized process in which Eversource works with communities they serve to clear blocked roads that involve electric lines as quickly as possible during a storm.

"Each community also has a critical facilities list that includes police departments, fire stations, hospitals and water treatment facilities that are to be prioritized for restoration and we continuously work with all of the communities we serve to address any requests for additions to that list," Gross said.

McNally said Eversource will circle back on Post 53 this week.