Expected To Get Worse Before Better, Town Issues Storm Advisory

BRANFORD, CT — Branford's Emergency Operations Center is monitoring the storm closely it says noting that the "powerful" storm will get far worse before it gets better.

Saying the worst of the storm is expected throughout the day Monday into the late night, more than an inch of snow will fall every hour with blizzard conditions possible until around 7 p.m. Snowfall totals of 12 to 16 is expected, and gusty winds will create blowing and drifting snow, causing low visibility. Minor coastal flooding, with tides one to two feet above normal, is expected during high tide Monday afternoon.

And of most concern to many, power outages are also possible.

The Emergency Operations Center advisories:

· Pay attention to local weather forecasts and bulletins issued by the National Weather Service on local radio stations.

· All curbside collection of trash and recycling will be delayed one day for the reminder of the week.

· Drivers are advised to stay off the roads unless their travel is necessary.

· Prepare for possible power outages, make sure cell phone batteries are charged.

· Residents should avoid parking in the roadway. The Town’s ordinance prohibits parking on the even side of the roadway during and for 24 hours after the snowfall.

· Be sure to clear snow from the area where furnaces, hot water heaters, clothes dryers and other appliances vent outside the building. Should your Carbon Monoxide (CO) alarm activate please evacuate the building and call 911.

· In addition, it is the responsibility of the owner, tenant, occupant or any person having the care of any land or building adjoining any sidewalk to clear the sidewalk of all ice and snow following the storm.

· It is also a violation of town ordinance to deposit snow from private driveways into the roadway and homeowners are responsible for violations committed by their private plowing contractors.

Updates:

1 p.m.: Due to current weather conditions the Branford Town Hall is closed. Some offices are still providing services remotely. Residents can take advantage of the availability of services via online or by phone. Please visit our website at www.branford-ct.gov or contact the department directly for assistance: https://www.branford-ct.gov/departments