Malloy Opens Emergency Operations Center in Wake of Storm Forecast

Gov. Dannel Malloy announced he will partially active the state’s Emergency Operations Center today in preparation for the pending severe weather expected to hit Connecticut this evening.

The center is expected to open at 3:30 p.m. today so that the governor’s administration can monitor and manage any issues that arise as a result of the possible severe weather, Malloy’s office said in a press release.

“This will allow us to better coordinate with municipalities and state agencies, and respond quickly should we have power outages or other damage from these potential storms,” Malloy said. “I encourage Connecticut residents to closely monitor weather conditions throughout the day and evening, and take proper precautions to stay safe.”

Currently, severe weather is forecasted to enter the state from the northwest later this afternoon and continue throughout tonight. Frequent lightening, strong wind gusts up to 58 mph, hail, and flash flooding is possible with these storms. 

The EOC will be staffed by a number of state and federal agencies, including the following:

• Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security
• Division of the State Police
• Department of Public Health
• Department of Transportation
• Military Department
• Department of Energy and Environmental Protection
• State Fire Coordination
• Connecticut Light & Power
• United Illuminating.

Below are some recommended severe thunderstorm safety tips:  

• Watch the sky for approaching dark clouds, increasing winds, and flashes of light.

• If thunder can be heard, you are close enough to the storm to be struck by lightning, and you should take shelter immediately.   
  Keep up to date on weather forecasts through local TV broadcasts and radio.

• Avoid using electrical equipment/appliances, and preferably unplug things such as televisions, air conditioners, and computers. Electrical lines are excellent conductors of electricity.

• Do not take baths or showers during storms, as water is an excellent conductor of electricity. Use as little water as possible during storms.
  Draw blinds and shades over windows as a precaution to prevent windows shattering into your home, should they be broken by blowing debris.

• Stay away from all types of bodies of water. If you are boating or swimming, get to land and find shelter immediately. 

• Secure outdoor objects, such as lawn furniture, that could blow away or cause damage or injury.