Stamford, CT – Henri has been upgraded from a tropical storm to a Category 1 hurricane and will likely make landfall across eastern Long Island early Sunday afternoon, then track into southern New England late Sunday into Monday.
The main threats from Henri are a potentially life-threatening storm surge, heavy rain capable of producing flash flooding, and tropical storm or hurricane force winds.
Residents are advised not to drive through low lying roads that may be flooded or through any still water, which could potentially result in becoming stranded. Residents are also advised to stay away from downed electrical wires and report them to the 911, Communications Center, and Eversource.
Stamford residents are advised to remain indoors upon arrival of Hurricane Henri.
A forecasted widespread rainfall of 3 to 6 inches is to be anticipated, with localized higher amounts possible Saturday night through Sunday night.
There will also be associated marine and coastal hazards, including very rough seas and dangerous rip currents.
Mayor David Martin has urged residents to take precautionary measures ahead of the incoming storm and stated that the City is fully prepared for the incoming weather conditions. “City and resident precautionary measures against tropical storms can save lives. Residents are urged to prepare for the incoming storm by planning ahead and adhering the advice of our public safety officials. The safety and wellbeing of our residents is our first priority and the City is fully equipped to respond to the storm in every regard.” Martin said.
The Director of Public Safety, Health and Welfare, Ted Jankowski stated, “Emergency response officials have held multiple hurricane preparedness meetings and have taken the appropriate measures to ensure that our City is completely prepared for the impacts of this storm. I ask residents to use caution when traveling and to educate themselves on the potential hazards and the risks associated with a hurricane.”
Stamford residents are advised that regularly scheduled trash pickup will be cancelled for Monday, August 23.
Outdoor Vaccination Sites close 1:00 today, August 21, due to the coming storm. All outdoor Covid-19 vaccination sites will close at 1:00 today and remain closed through Monday.
Residents and business are urged to prepare:
All Stamford residents are advised to take the following precautions:
· Sign up for Emergency Alerts at www.ctalert.gov
· Stay in touch with the City of Stamford through our web site www.stamfordct.gov and the City’s Emergency Hotline 203-977-8840
· Follow the City of Stamford’s social media channels for updates including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or NextDoor.
· Bring inside any lawn furniture, outdoor decorations, hanging plants, trash cans
· Charge cellphones/ withdraw cash in the event of power outages.
· Prepare an emergency kit, including:
o One gallon of water per person per day
o Nonperishable food,
o Hand operated can opener,
o Flashlight,
o Battery-powered radio
o Prescription drugs,
o Eyeglasses,
o Small hand tools,
o Blankets,
o Pillows,
o Towels/ Toiletries
Emergency Shelters: In the event of a major power outage emergency or flooding, a shelter will be open to the public at Stamford High School, 55 Strawberry Hill Avenue, at 8 a.m. Sunday morning. Residents may bring personal belongings, pets, pet food, leashes, etc., City officials are currently in the process of setting up a Covid-19 testing site at the shelter.
Dangers of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: In the event of a power outage, portable generators should be operated safely. Outdoor grilling devices should never be brought inside the home for cooking or warmth. Only use generators and outdoor grills outside of your home and never in enclosed spaces such as garages, basements, or porches. Always run your generator outdoors as far from your home and your neighbors’ homes as possible (at least 20 feet) and away from doors, windows, and air intake vents.
Care for your Pet: Bring pets/companion animals inside during storm.
When to Call 911:
To report a life-threatening emergency
To report power line or live wires. NEVER approach the wires!
The roadway is blocked and emergency vehicles cannot get through
If you smell a gas leak
Stay Informed: Be sure to repeatedly check your local TV and radio stations, as well as the City’s website for news and information as it becomes available.
At this time, the City’s Emergency Operations Center is partially activated virtually.
The next update will be issued by the National Weather Service in New York, NY around 6 PM EDT, or sooner if conditions warrant.
A full list of precautions and suggested preparation steps can be found at: www.bepreparedStamford.org and www.ready.gov/hurricanes.
