Norwalk Encouraged To Stay Safe After Floods: City Officials

NORWALK, CT — Norwalk residents are reminded to stay safe and use caution as the state continues to dry off from the remnants of Hurricane Ida, which blew through on Wednesday.

In a statement, city spokesperson Josh Morgan said the remnants of Ida brought approximately 7.5 inches of rain to Norwalk, which he referred to as a "historically significant" event.

The heavy rainfall resulted in water-covered roadways, stranded vehicles, power outages and flooded basements throughout the city, Morgan said.

Police Sgt. Sofia Gulino said there are no road closures in the city beyond normal construction issues as of 11:30 a.m., however there are several areas where public works employees are working to clear drains in Norwalk due to large puddles of water remaining in low lying areas.

No serious injuries were reported overnight as a result of the storm, Gulino said.

Several vehicles in low lying areas did become inoperable due to the weather, some of which were abandoned until morning. Gulino said tow trucks have most likely cleared all vehicles out of the way at this point.

Gulino also noted police received a report of a tree down and on wires on Rocky Point Road around 11:30 a.m., and an officer was on their way to the area.

Residents are reminded to "turn around-don't drown," and to never drive through water-covered roads.

Members of the public can continue to report issues to Norwalk Customer Service at 203-854-3200 or via email at customerservice@norwalkct.org. Non-emergency issues can also be submitted through the city's Click and Request App, which is available on Apple and Android devices, Morgan said.

Members of the public can also report damages through the city's crisis track portal, however Morgan noted there is "no guarantee of any local, state or federal assistance." The city is being proactive in collecting this information and photos in the event of any potential assistance, Morgan said.

The city encouraged residents to follow the American Red Cross' post-flood tips:

• Wear heavy work gloves, protective clothing, and boots during clean up and use appropriate face coverings or masks if cleaning mold or other debris.
• People with asthma and other lung conditions and/or immune suppression should not enter buildings with indoor water leaks or mold growth that can be seen or smelled. Children should not take part in disaster cleanup work.
• Be aware that snakes and other animals may be in your house.
• Be aware of the risk of electrocution. Do not touch electrical equipment if it is wet or if you are standing in water. Turn off the electricity to prevent electric shock if it is safe to do so.
• Avoid wading in floodwater, which can be contaminated and contain dangerous debris. Underground or downed power lines can also electrically charge the water.
• Use a generator or other gasoline-powered machinery only outdoors and away from windows.