Full Breakdown
Severe Flooding Over the Weekend Overwhelms Connecticut’s Storm-water Systems
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event
Heavy rain fell across Connecticut on Sunday, with some locations receiving more than seven inches in a short period. The intense precipitation caused flash flooding that inundated streets, closed portions of Interstate 95 in Greenwich, Route 1, and the Merritt Parkway between Westport and Fairfield, and temporarily halted operations at Tweed New Haven Airport. State roads were reopened by Monday morning, and rail service resumed on schedule.
Damage Reports and State Response
Governor Ned Lamont convened a news conference on Monday at the state Capitol, joined by emergency-management and transportation officials, to brief the public on the situation. State Emergency Management Director Bill Turner indicated that a cluster of five to ten towns, primarily in Fairfield County, bore the brunt of the damage. He emphasized that residents should submit damage reports through the state website, regardless of insurance status, to help determine eligibility for a federal disaster declaration.
Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Transportation Leisha King confirmed that all state-maintained roadways had been cleared and reopened. Acting Fire Chief Mark Cody of Bridgeport noted that his department responded to more than 100 service calls during a three-hour window on Sunday, including dozens of rescues of people trapped in homes or vehicles.
Data on Impacts
- Rainfall: Over seven inches recorded in several locations.
- Road closures: Dozens of roads and bridges, including a segment of I-95, Route 1, and the Merritt Parkway.
- Rescue operations: 13 vehicle rescues by the Westport Fire Department; over 100 calls handled by Bridgeport fire services.
- Personal loss: One Bridgeport resident reported approximately seven inches of water in his basement, describing the street as “completely inundated.”
Assistance and Ongoing Recovery
Westport’s Deputy Fire Chief Matthew Cohen explained that flooding in the town is exacerbated when brooks and creeks feeding the Saugatuck River overflow. New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker urged drivers to respect road closures after some motorists attempted to bypass barriers and became stranded. The American Red Cross has indicated that flood-damage assistance may be available to affected residents. State officials continue to collect damage reports to assess whether Connecticut will seek a major disaster declaration from the federal government.