Fairfield Prepares For Weekend Nor'easter With Heavy Rain, Strong Winds And Flooding Risk

FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield officials are urging residents to prepare for a long-duration nor'easter expected to bring heavy rain, strong winds and the potential for flooding and power outages this weekend.

Following a statewide Emergency Management Team meeting, town officials said the storm is expected to affect Fairfield on Saturday and Sunday and could continue into Monday.

A wind advisory is in effect from 2 p.m. Friday through 6 a.m. Sunday, while a flood advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. Friday through 6 p.m. Sunday.

Officials said strong winds combined with water-saturated soil and trees that still have their leaves could cause trees to fall, potentially bringing down power lines and blocking roads. Power outages could last for hours before service is restored.

Fairfield could receive 2 to 3.5 inches of rain, with as much as 5.3 inches possible over the three-day period, according to the town.

Minor to moderate coastal flooding is considered most likely during several high tide cycles: 11:54 p.m. Saturday, 12:09 p.m. Sunday, and 12:36 a.m. and 12:49 p.m. Monday. Flood levels could be higher if the storm's track shifts, officials said.

Residents are being asked to prepare their homes and property for several days of stormy weather.

Before the storm, officials recommend charging phones and other devices and making sure notifications are enabled. Residents in flood-prone areas should consider moving vehicles to higher ground before water begins rising.

Once the storm is imminent, parking will be available at the Fairfield Train Station in the lot on the southbound side. Parking enforcement is waived during storms and emergencies at the discretion of Emergency Management and the Police Department.

Residents should secure outdoor furniture, trash cans, seasonal decorations, grills and other objects that could become airborne in strong winds. Those with sump pumps should check that they are operating properly.

Residents with generators should make sure they are working and never operate them indoors or in a garage, basement or other enclosed space. People who depend on electricity for medical equipment and do not have a generator should make arrangements for an alternative location.

Officials also recommend having flashlights, batteries, medications, bottled water and several days of nonperishable food available. Pet owners should have several days of food, medications, leashes and carriers ready.

Residents should make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working, keep some cash available in case access to ATMs or credit card services is limited, clean gutters and trim or remove damaged tree limbs on their property. Officials also encouraged residents to check on neighbors to make sure they are aware of the approaching storm.

During the storm, residents are advised to stay off the roads when possible and never drive or walk through floodwater. Flooding can conceal displaced manhole covers, washouts, debris and other hazards.

Residents should also stay away from downed power lines and never drive over them.

If a traffic signal is not operating because of a power outage, motorists should treat the intersection as a stop sign, coming to a complete stop and proceeding only when it is safe.

Fairfield's Emergency Management Team will close flooded roads as needed. Residents should not remove barricades or attempt to drive through closed areas.

Anyone trapped in a building by flooding should go to the highest level of the building but should not enter a closed attic, where rising water could leave them trapped.

Residents can monitor National Weather Service reports and official town updates through text alerts, email and social media. Storm information will also be available on the town's website.