Storm expected to hit CT Sunday night could bring flooding, scattered power outages

A storm system expected to bring high winds and soaking rains late Sunday and into Monday could be accompanied by power outages scattered throughout the state.

In preparation for the storm, Eversource said the power company is monitoring several forecasts and is bringing in outside crews to help with potential restoration efforts.

“The combination of soaking rain and strong winds can more easily bring down trees and tree limbs onto power lines and equipment causing outages, so we’re taking all necessary actions now to ensure our team is ready to respond,” Steve Sullivan, president of Eversource Connecticut, said in a statement issued Friday. “We’ll have crews prepositioned at our work centers throughout the state before the storm hits so they can immediately get to any damage locations and restore power as quickly as possible.”

Forecasts are calling for the storm to roll in Sunday night, with the heaviest periods of rain occurring between midnight and into the morning commute on Monday, according to Darren Sweeney, meteorologist for NBC Connecticut. Wind gusts are expected up to and possibly over 50 mph, especially along the shoreline, Sweeney said.

The combination of high winds and a couple of inches of rainfall in a short time could bring isolated power outages to the coastline, along with scattered outages throughout the state, according to Sweeney. It should help that most trees this time of year have shed all of their leaves, he added.

The storm has the potential to bring basement and street flooding to various parts of Connecticut.

“There may be some issues with the Monday morning commute,” Sweeney said, adding that as of Friday the storm was not expected to bring widespread power outages to the state.

“We’ll have to see how the forecast shapes up over the weekend,” Sweeney said.

Nevertheless, Eversource is encouraging Connecticut residents ahead of the storm to assemble or restock storm kits to include things like flashlights, batteries, water, non-perishable foods, pet food and essentials and any needed medications. The power company also encourages residents to ensure cell phones and other electronic devices are fully charged and to create an emergency plan with family members and prepare to check on elderly neighbors and friends.