Town Of Westport: 08-22-2021 Official Press Release – For Immediate Release Hurricane Henri

Press release from the Town of Westport:

08/22/2021 12:30 PM

Sunday, August 22, 2021
Westport, CT - The Westport Emergency Management Team will continue to closely monitor the track of Tropical Storm Henri. The Westport Emergency Operations Center has been activated as of 7:00 AM this morning.
Police Chief Foti Koskinas said, “While it appears that Tropical Storm Henri has shifted to the east of us, it is essential to remain vigilant and follow the latest guidance and forecast. We want our residents to be safe and always be prepared. We will continue to provide updates throughout the remainder of the storm.”

HENRI still forecast to make landfall near the CONNECTICUT/RHODE ISLAND border between 1:00 – 2:00 PM this afternoon…TROPICAL STORM WARNINGS are now in effect for the entire state… FLOOD WATCHES are also in effect for the entire state. Strong winds from Henri will impact the state today into tonight. Highest sustained winds are expected in southeastern Connecticut in the 30-45 mph range with gusts up to 65 mph.

Helpful Numbers and Information in Case You Lose Power:

• Optimum: (866) 950-3278
• Eversource CT: 800-286-2000 OR text ‘OUT’ to 23129
• Frontier: (800) 239-4430
• RedCross Emergency Shelter Locator: (800) 733-2767
• Fire Marshal Gibbons has activated the local, Staples radio station. Tune in for updates at WWPD 90.3FM

Flooding:

Do not walk or drive through floodwaters.  Never attempt to drive through a flooded road. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car. If your building floods, move to a higher floor but do not enter a closed attic. Residents in flood-prone areas can move their vehicles to Saugatuck Avenue Train Station Lot # 8.

Closures:

• State and Town beaches are closed as well as Longshore golf course and Compo Marina.
• Stay informed. Tune into your local radio, news channels or weather apps/ websites for the latest updates. Sign up for NIXLE alerts from the Town’s Emergency Operations Center. Text: 06880 to 888 777

During the Storm:

• Stay home and stay off the roads.
• Do not go sightseeing! Roads must be kept clear for emergency vehicles.
• Do not drive through floodwaters or over downed wires.  Stay clear of downed power lines at least 25’.
• Do not drive around barrier tape or barricades.
• Stay inside and away from windows.
• Report power outages to Eversource at 800-286-2000
• Stay informed using social media and radio WWPD 90.3FM

** Sign up for Emergency Notifications by registering at www.nixle.com, or by simply texting 06880 to 888777 from your mobile phone**

This press release was produced by the Town of Westport. The views expressed here are the author’s own.