Tag Archives: Westport emergency management team

Blizzard Alert!

Posted on February 21, 2026 | 2 comments

Westporters know a blizzard is coming. A few minutes ago, the line at Trader Joe’s wound all the way to the milk and orange juice cases on one side, and nearly to the bananas on the other.

The parking lot — and entrance from the Post Road — was crazier than ever. That’s saying something.

Trader Joe’s, noon today. (Photo/Dan Woog)

Meanwhile, the Westport Office of Emergency Management says:

We are closely monitoring a major coastal storm expected to impact the area from Sunday morning through Monday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for coastal Connecticut.

Residents should prepare for dangerous conditions, including heavy snow, strong winds, coastal flooding, and power outages.

 Expected Conditions

  • Heavy Snow: 13 to 18 inches are likely. Snowfall rates may exceed 2 inches per hour Sunday night.
  • High Winds: North/northeast winds of 30 to 35 miles per hour, with gusts up to 55.
  • Coastal Flooding: Widespread moderate coastal flooding is possible during Sunday night and Monday morning high tides. Inundation of 1.5 to 2.5 feet above ground level may occur in vulnerable low-lying areas.
  • Power Outages: Heavy, wet snow combined with strong winds may result in downed tree limbs and power interruptions.

Required Actions for Residents

 Stay Off the Roads: Travel will become dangerous and may be impossible during peak storm conditions. Keep roadways clear for emergency vehicles and snow removal operations.

Parking Advisory: The Department of Public Works strongly urges residents to remove vehicles from roadways prior to the onset of snowfall. If vehicles cannot be fully removed, residents should follow alternate side parking based on the calendar date (odd/even schedule). Clearing streets is critical to allow plows to operate effectively and to ensure emergency access.

Protect Property: Move vehicles from flood-prone and low-lying waterfront areas where coastal flooding may occur.

Prepare for Outages: Fully charge electronic devices and ensure flashlights and extra batteries are readily available.

Check on Neighbors: Monitor elderly or vulnerable neighbors who may require assistance during the storm.

Report Emergencies: Call 911 for life-safety emergencies. Report power outages directly to Eversource (800-286-2000).

The Department of Public Works anticipates a prolonged event lasting approximately 36 hours, and will have crews on station beginning at midnight to support continuous snow removal operations. Residents should not expect sidewalks to be fully cleared until well after the storm concludes, particularly if snowfall accumulations reach projected levels.

The Westport Fire Department remains fully staffed and prepared to respond to all emergencies. Residents should complete storm preparations by Saturday evening, and remain indoors during peak storm conditions.

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Emergency Alerts: Be In The (Nixle) Know

Posted on July 30, 2024 | 4 comments

When disaster strikes — a hurricane, say, or a toxic chemical spill on I-95 — the question isn’t “Who you gonna call?”

It should be: “Who’s gonna call you?”

The answer is simple: Nixle.

The town-wide notification system can mean the difference between losing your car to a flood, or moving it to higher ground. Or driving into downed wires, or avoiding the area completely. Or dozens of other dangerous scenarios, which — thanks to modern technology — Westport’s emergency services personnel and first responders can now warn us about.

Nixle is nimble. Notifications can be sent in any form residents want to receive them: text, email or phone. They can be sent to every resident in town, or only an affected neighborhood or group.

They can even be scheduled by time. We can get an alert first thing in the morning — but it won’t unduly alarm us at 3 a.m.

When disaster strikes — as it did during Hurricane Isaias, here on Prospect Road near Hillandale — Nixle can warn of road closures.

Nixle is an opt-in system. (To sign up, text 06880 to 888777, or click here.)

It’s used by Westport’s emergency management team, and the Police Department.

The other day, emergency management director Nick Marsan and Police Captain Dave Wolf described the system.

It can be used for a variety of situations, including drinking water contamination, utility outages, evacuation notices, unexpected road closures, missing persons, fires, flash flood and tornado warnings, bomb threats, chemical spills and gas leaks.

It is used sparingly, Marsan and Wolf stress, in public safety and emergency situations. In other words: Nixle will notify users about a flash flood. It will not be used every time rain is coming.

(Big storms, yes. A Nixle message might say “65 mph winds are expected. Stay off roads, and prepare for long-term power outages.”)

A Nixle text alert …

Officials want to ensure that when residents get a Nixle alert, they understand it’s serious.

That’s why Nixle is not used for heavy traffic (an all-too-common occurrence). If, however, traffic lights are inoperable, or detours are in place, an alert could be sent.

(So how can you find out about “normal” traffic issues? Sign up for Police and Fire Department’s social media: Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.)

Officials realize that residents get information in a variety of ways: texts, calls, emails.

Some older residents prefer old-fashioned phone calls. Nixle sends those too (and leaves a message, if the call is not answered).

Text messages are brief, and to the point: “Long Lots Road is closed between Turkey Hill and Hyde Lane, due to a car fire.” Emails and phone messages can be longer.

Only a few people in each department have authority to issue a Nixle alert. That prevents over-use of the system.

“Unless a meteor is coming, we have a few minutes to plan our message,” Marsan says.

Typically there is a quick discussion before an alert is issued, to ensure that the proper message goes out, to the right audience.

Not every resident needs to know, for example, to move to higher ground during a storm surge. But those living near the shore do. Any Nixle message can be sent to the entire town, or any segment of it.

(If you’re signed up, you’ll get an alert even if you’re not physically here. That’s helpful, if you need to tell a nanny or neighbor the news.)

… and the dashboard. It shows that 2 flood alerts were sent to over 6,000 text recipients, more than 3,000 email users, and over 100 phone lines. 

Human Services Department Elaine Daignault also uses Nixle. She maintains a list of residents who may be particularly vulnerable during emergencies. She can offer information, and ask if they need food or other resources.

Many people on Daignault’s list — including those with vision issues — prefer the phone to emails or texts. Nixle allows her to communicate easily, by recorded voice.

Marsan and Wolf point to unexpected uses of the system. One morning, heavy — and unexpected — ice caused several accidents. A Nixle message went out: “Extreme ice conditions throughout Westport.” Residents were urged to take care when walking outside, getting in and out of cars, and driving.

It’s also been used — successfully — to find residents reported as missing.

“We’ve never regretted sending out a message,” Wolf says. Over time, though officials have refined exactly what they say, and how they say it.

Nixle has not yet been used in Westport for an active shooter, or a hazardous chemical release after a rail accident. Hopefully, it never will be.

But if either event — or any other unforeseen incident — happens, Nixle will let us know.

We just have to sign up for it.

(To enroll in Nixle, text 06880 to 888777, or click here. You’ll also have an option to enroll in a database for notification by state officials.)

When Saugatuck Shores floods, Nixle sends targeted messages to the neighborhood. (Photo/Michele Sorensen)

(“06880” is your hyper-local blog. If you rely on us for news and information, please click here to support our work. Thank you!)

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Significant Storm Sets Sights Here

Posted on January 16, 2022 | 2 comments

A weather alert in mid-January usually involves snow.

This one is all about wind and flooding.

Westport’s Office of Emergency Management says:

A significant winter storm is forecast for Sunday night into Monday morning, with the expectation of moderate coastal flooding during high tide.

High winds may bring dangerous downed trees, power outages and flooding in low lying neighborhoods.

Brief snow at the onset tonight quickly changes to rain throughout the rest of the evening. There will be moderate to heavy rain overnight into Monday morning. The strongest winds are from late tonight into Monday morning at 10 a.m.

Damaging winds of 30 to 40 miles an hour are predicted, with with gusts 55 to 65 mph. There may be numerous downed tree limbs and scattered downed trees. Power outages are likely, with dangerous travel conditions for high profile vehicles.

Some minor urban and poor drainage flooding is possible due to a combination of rain, snow melt, and frozen ground.

Saugatuck Shores residents know that Canal Road often floods. (Photo/Gene Borio)

Widespread moderate to locally major coastal flooding is possible. Numerous low-lying and shoreline roads will be closed in the area, with adjacent properties taking on water. Some flooding may occur in areas that normally don’t experience flooding.

Westport Fire Chief Michael Kronick says, “We encourage residents in low-lying areas to move their vehicles to Saugatuck railroad parking lot #8, or to higher ground.

“If you’re in your car and water comes up around you, get out and move to higher ground right away. Cars can be swept away in just 2 feet of moving water. Please assume all downed power lines are live and dangerous.”

If travel is essential, keep an extra flashlight, food, and water in your vehicle in case of an emergency. Allow extra time, as some roads may be closed. Dangerous travel conditions may exist. Do not drive around barricades or through waters of unknown depth. Please check your generators and charge your devices in the event of a power outage. Have a battery powered radio on hand.

Sign up for local emergency alerts: Text 06880 to 888777, or sign up at www.nixle.com

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Westport Emergency Management Team Says …

Posted on August 21, 2021 | 6 comments

The Westport Emergency Management Team says:

Hurricane Henri is forecast to enter our area tomorrow with tropical storm force winds and torrential rain. Deputy Chief Michael Kronick urges:

Now is the time to prepare for Henri. Bring in or secure outdoor items, and get what you need for the possibility of a power outage. We will continue to provide updates as they are available later this evening.

We should prepare for the possibility of a Category 1 hurricane landfall in Connecticut tomorrow.

Hurricane, Tropical Storm, and Storm Surge Warnings are up for the entire state. Henri will likely maintain hurricane strength as it approaches Long Island and Connecticut. Whether it’s a Category 1 hurricane or strong tropical storm, the impact will not change.

What to Expect:

The outer rain bands of Henri will move in after 3 a.m.. Winds will start to pick up after 5 a.m.

It will rain all day on Sunday. Be prepared for several inches of rain, in addition to 3- to 5-foot storm surge at the shoreline (coupled with an astronomically high tide).

Moderate River and Major Urban Flooding Expected:

Henri is forecast to bring 4 to 8 inches of rain to the entire state. This may cause moderate to major urban flooding and moderate river and stream flooding Sunday afternoon and evening.

Flash flooding is likely, along with the 3- to 5-foot storm surge at the shoreline. High tide hits at 9:30 to 11:30 a.m..

Moderate to Major Tree and Powerline Damage Possible:

Winds may gust to 50 – 70 mph. Gusts could be higher around the eye of the storm, depending on exactly where Henri makes landfall. Since the ground is already so saturated, it won’t take much wind to bring down trees.

Storm Preparation:

  • Residents in flood-prone areas can move their vehicles to Saugatuck train station Lot # 8.
  • Get your home ready. Secure (or move inside) outdoor plants, furniture, and other loose item
  • Stay informed. Tune into your local radio, town social media, 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
  • Fuel up your vehicle in advance of the storm.
  • Be prepared for power outages. Make sure devices are charged in advance.
  • Make sure you have extra batteries for flashlights. If you lose power, don’t run generators indoors.

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Town Update: We’re Getting There. But It Will Take A While.

Posted on August 6, 2020 | 8 comments

Westport’s Emergency Management Response Team says:

The Department of Public Works has made great progress opening up approximately 40% of the 294 roads that were closed. Last evening they reopened Saugatuck Avenue so that police, fire, and EMS can access Saugatuck Shores without having to pass through East Norwalk.

Part of the standard for restoration is the “Make Safe” program. Town highway crews are paired with Eversource crews to reopen streets blocked by downed trees and power lines. Once the power company verifies that the electricity is off to the downed wires, Public Works crews can then safely remove trees, branches and debris to open the streets. Streets with no secondary access are prioritized so that emergency vehicles can gain access.

Power cannot be safely restored until all the trees are cleared. Unfortunately, this process may take days. There can be no official estimates for when power may be restored while the Make Safe process is ongoing. However, once the next phase begins, more accurate data will be available to provide estimates on times and areas of restoration.

Post Road West, near Academy of Dance, 11 a.m. this morning. (Photo/Leah Nash)

1st Selectman Jim Marpe adds:

I have been in direct contact with Eversource and our legislators about the Eversource response and its expected time frame for restoration, demanding accurate estimates from Eversource for their remaining restoration efforts. Governor Lamont has also stepped in to demand a better response from Eversource.

In an effort to manage expectations regarding estimates of power restoration time, be aware that this storm has created as much electrical infrastructure damage as Super Storm Sandy 8 years ago. Power restoration for some customers in that event took many days. We understand everyone’s frustration with even a day without power, so we will push Eversource in every way possible to speed the process, without compromising safety.

A hanging utility pole, on Quarter Mile Road. (Photo/Richard Epstein)

We are also aware of the challenges with sporadic to non-existent WiFi, internet and cell service. We have been in contact with executives at major carriers, including AT&T, Wireless and Verizon. Cell towers and antennae require commercial power to operate. As a result, they are also affected by the massive outage. The representatives assured us that they are working on temporary solutions to gain some level of service, but ultimately they, like all of us, rely on full restoration by Eversource before they may achieve full capability.

The town is working on establishing locations for public device charging stations.  Seniors age 60 or over can charge their devices on the outside of the Senior Center weekdays between 8:30 and 4:30 p.m. Outdoor public Wi-Fi can be accessed at the train station houses, outside of Town Hall and outside the Westport Library.

Yesterday, there were technical issues that prevented broadcasting on WWPT.  Those issues have been resolved. I encourage residents to tune in to 90.3 FM radio for information and guidance during this emergency.

Linda Doyle lives on Rocky Ridge Road, off Valley Road. She says: “No power. Any source of communication in or out is almost non-existent. Scant emergency texts come from the town that we are able to retrieve! There is no way in or out of the road at this time. Lucky to have great neighbors and friends. We are trying to remain patient and hopeful.” (Photo/Linda Doyle)

While safety remains our utmost concern, we suggest that residents remain at home after dark given that downed wires are harder to be seen at night.  Furthermore, traffic lights continue to be out of service and all intersections must be approached as if a stop sign was there.

Please do not remove caution tape or barricades from roadways; they are there for your safety. If tape or barricades are removed prematurely, personnel must reattach it, taking time away from other vital activities. Exercise extreme caution if out walking, cycling or jogging on the roadways and sidewalks, since many remain blocked by limbs and wires.

We appreciate your continued patience and cooperation as we work effectively and efficiently to address the issues associated with this event. Please remember, we are still fighting the COVID-19 virus so practice social distancing and use face coverings if you choose to leave your home. Please help protect our community as we work together to get through the pandemic and the storm aftermath.

Update on Westport Parks & Recreation:

Town beaches are open, but will close at 8:30 p.m. in an effort to keep people off the roads after dark. Longshore golf course and tennis courts remain closed as clean-up continues and there is no electricity. Access will be available to the ER Strait Marina, Longshore Sailing School and the Pearl restaurant.  Please note that due to the lack of power, fuel is not available at either marina.

Athletic fields are open with the exception of Town Farms and Coleytown Elementary School fields.  For updates on those fields, check with Westport Little League.

Other park facilities that are open include Winslow Park, Machamux Park, Grace Salmon Park, Luciano Park, Eloise Ray Park, Pasacreta Park, Jesup Green and Veterans Green.

The Staples, Town Farms and Doubleday tennis courts are open for play. Other parks will be opened once damage has been assessed and the area is deemed safe.  Please do not enter a park if it has been closed off.

Don’t remove caution tape. It’s there for a reason! (Photo/Bruce Haymes)

REMINDERS

For your safety and the well-being of others:

Only call 911 for true medical emergencies.
Check on your neighbors.
Stay at least 25 feet from downed power lines.
·         Be aware of possible carbon monoxide poisoning from portable generators.

·         All generators (portable and installed) should be used in well-ventilated locations outside and at least 10-15 feet away from all doors, windows, and vent openings.

·         Never use a generator in an attached garage, even with the door open.

If you must drive, use caution, expect delays and detours, and be considerate of other drivers and emergency crews. DO NOT drive around tape or barricades – they have been erected for your safety. Without working traffic signals, intersections must be approached as if a STOP sign was there.  Make a full stop at all intersections and treat this as a four way STOP.

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

 

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Town Officials: Prepare For Isaias

Posted on August 3, 2020 | 1 comment

First Selectman Jim Marpe and Westport’s Emergency Management Team are watching a tropical storm, expected to strike here tomorrow (Tuesday). They say:

We ask the community to begin preparations now, and ensure they have a plan of action in place for themselves, their families and/or their business.

Fire Chief Robert Yost says: “Avoid traveling and plan to be home by Tuesday afternoon as we expect damaging winds and flooding. Now is the time to secure your home: check sump pumps, clear gutters, secure your outdoor furniture, BBQs and loose objects.”

Isaias is a tropical storm, not a hurricane. This is the result of Superstorm Sandy, in 2012.

Expect flash flooding due to heavy rains.

⚠️   Seek shelter and avoid traveling once rain and storm winds start.

🚧 Do not walk or drive through flood waters.

Never attempt to drive on or through a flooded road.

🏠 If your building floods, move to a higher floor but do not enter a closed attic.

According to the National Weather Service, Tropical Storm Isaias is now forecast to make its closest approach early Tuesday. Tropical storm force winds are expected to arrive a few hours later, at approximately 2 p.m. The latest model indicates that the tropical storm will pack sustained winds of 40-50 MPH, with gusts to 70 MPH when it arrives.

The primary threat from Isaias still appears to be from strong winds. Based on the current NHC forecast we can expect a high end moderate to borderline major impact to trees and power lines.

As with all dying tropical systems there is also the risk for severe thunderstorms, and a few weak tornadoes. The tropical storm will also be accompanied by some heavy rain of 2-4 inches.  Minor to moderate flooding is also possible.

Myrtle Avenue flooding in 2018.

The updated arrival timing brings the strongest winds into the coast at low tide. Therefore, only minor coastal flooding is expected, which may inundate a few low lying coastal roads with wave splash.

Downed power lines can be deadly. Always assume they are live, and avoid going near them or anything in contact with them.

Sign up for emergency notifications by registering at www.nixle.com, or texting “06880” to 888777 from your mobile phone. 

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Town Sends Out A Trick-Or-Treat Message

Posted on October 30, 2019 | 2 comments

A press release from Westport’s police, fire and selectman’s office says:

Members of the town’s emergency management team and the first selectman have discussed the weather forecast for Halloween, and the effect it may have on trick-or-treating in Westport. The team also discussed requests the town has received to consider changing trick-or-treating night to Friday or Saturday, and the logistics involved in making such a change.

Because trick-or-treating is not a town-sponsored event, the team agreed that it is best to leave the decision up to families and individual neighborhoods to change the night within their own neighborhood.

According to the National Weather Service, current models show a chance for a brief window of drying between 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Halloween. Heavy rains and wind will occur after 9 p.m.

In all circumstances, the emergency management team recommends close supervision of all trick-or-treaters. Door-to-door trick-or-treating close to home in familiar areas is advisable.

The Police Department offers the following safety tips for trick-or-treating:

  • Motorists are urged to drive with extreme care and allow extra time to reach destinations, as trick-or-treaters will surely be out on Thursday evening, October 31. Please use the utmost caution when exiting driveways. Please don’t drink and drive.
  • Parents or other responsible adults should accompany all elementary school-age children. Younger children should complete their rounds by 6 p.m., older ones by 8 p.m. Agree on a specific time when older youths are due home, and plan a route with them in advance.
  • Costumes should be easily visible and marked with reflector tape, and/or flashlights should be carried at all times. When choosing a costume, stay away from long trailing fabric that could create a fall hazard. Opt for face paint instead of a mask. If your child wears a mask, make sure the eye holes are large enough so they can see out.
  • Travel in small groups to increase safety.  Encourage children to stay in their own neighborhoods where they are known.
  • Children should only go to the houses where outside lights are on. A darkened house is not prepared to receive them. The police department receives complaints annually regarding doorbells being rung, even though the lights are out.

Trick or treat!

 

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