Alert: West Hartford Urges Residents To Prep For Heavy Rain, Strong Winds

WEST HARTFORD, CT — West Hartford officials are urging residents to secure outdoor items, clear storm drains, and prepare for possible power outages as a storm bringing heavy rain and strong winds approaches the area.

The town issued the preparedness notice Friday, Sept. 25, as the National Weather Service placed Hartford County under a Wind Advisory from noon Friday through 2 a.m. Sunday.

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The National Weather Service said northeast winds of 15 to 25 mph with gusts between 35 and 50 mph are expected in Hartford County.

The combination of prolonged winds, heavy rain, and fully leafed trees could increase the potential for tree damage and power outages.

Rain is expected over the weekend, with strong wind gusts accompanying the storm.

Town officials advised residents to take several precautions:

• Secure or bring indoors outdoor furniture, decorations, trash cans, and other objects that could be blown around.
• Clear leaves and debris from the tops of catch basins and storm drains near homes.
• Have flashlights, charged phones, and other supplies ready in case of an outage.
• Report power outages to Eversource at 1-800-286-2000 or through the utility's website.
• Stay away from fallen trees and power lines and assume any downed wire is energized.
• Never drive through a flooded roadway; turn around and use another route.

The town said widespread power outages are not expected but cautioned that isolated outages are possible.

When the power goes out, the town said folks should report it to Eversource by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-286-2000. To get a power outage alert from Eversource, click on this link.

Residents are also being encouraged to continue monitoring weather forecasts and alerts as conditions develop throughout the weekend.