Westport Officials Provide Information On Storm, Staying Safe

WESTPORT, CT — Westport First Selectman Jim Marpe and the Emergency Management Team released a message Friday in preparation for the Strong Coastal Storm, forecasted for Friday into Saturday. Officials said the low is forecasted to transfer its energy to the New Jersey Coast and begin to rapidly intensify into a major storm.

The storm is then forecasted to move slowly to the east Friday, passing south of Cape Cod Friday night, officials said.

Officials said they expect minor to moderate coastal flooding, high winds that have the potential to blow down trees and power lines and the potential for flooding of smaller rivers and streams across the area.

More from the Westport Office of Emergency Management:

A Coastal Flood Advisory has been issued for the area for Friday through Saturday evening. Minor to moderate flooding is forecasted in the most vulnerable locations near the waterfront and shoreline.

Expect around 1.5 to 3 feet of inundation above ground level in low lying, vulnerable areas. Roads and low lying properties, including parking lots, parks, lawns and homes/businesses with basements near the waterfront, should expect some flooding.

The magnitude of the coastal flooding tonight into Saturday is dependent on track and intensity of the storm. With the current forecast for minor to locally moderate coastal flooding expected today, the Westport Emergency Management Team encourages Westport residents and businesses to be prepared for possible flooding in areas prone to minor coastal flooding.

A High Wind Warning has been issued for the region with gusts forecasted for the area to be over 50 mph. Strong winds this afternoon through tonight may be capable of downing trees and power lines causing power outages.

A Flood Watch is also in effect for Friday and Saturday with 2 to 3 inches of rain forecasted with localized higher amounts. The Westport Emergency Management Team continues to monitor the forecast and are in contact with the National Weather Service and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management Homeland Security.

Current forecasts indicate there is a potential for minor to moderate flooding in coastal areas that are prone to flooding. We would like to remind residents to stay safe and plan ahead.

With higher than normal tides forecasted through Saturday, along with this weather event, we are anticipating that low lying roads in Westport will experience flooding. We are recommending that vehicles in flood-prone areas move to higher ground prior to the storm’s arrival.

Power Line Safety
• If you have to drive, watch out for trees and wires in the roadway. Do not drive across a downed power line. Treat all nonworking traffic lights as stop signs and proceed cautiously at intersections.
• Stay clear of all fallen tree limbs and electrical wires as well as anything they are touching—such as puddles and metal fences.
• Notify local fire, police, and electric utility officials about downed power lines.
• Treat all downed wires as if they are live, electricity can and will kill. Eversource Storm Safety Video, Electrical safety during and after a storm.

Flood Safety
• Avoid areas already flooded, especially if the water is flowing fast. Do not attempt to cross flowing streams. Turn Around, Don't Drown.
• NEVER drive through flooded roadways. Road beds may be washed out under flood waters. Turn Around Don't Drown.
• Be especially cautious at night when it is harder to recognize flood dangers.
• Never cross any barriers that are put in place by local emergency officials.
• Play it safe, Turn Around Don't Drown.

Residents can find additional information on the Town’s website (www.westportct.gov) and the National Weather Service (https://www.weather.gov/okx/).

Additional updates will also be posted on the Westport Fire Department Facebook page.

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