Lamont Declares State of Emergency in Wake of Widespread Power Outages

Over 700,000 power outages have been reported across the state of Connecticut.

Governor Lamont has issued a formal Declaration of Civil Preparedness Emergency to the Secretary of the State, Denise Merrill, which reads,

Due to the severe effects of Tropical Storm Isaias on the State, including close to 700,000 power outages, hundreds of closed roads, thousands of downed trees and utility lines; I am hereby proclaiming a state of civil preparedness emergency.

What happens after a Declaration of Emergency is signed by the governor?  According to the Hartford Courant, the declaration allows the state to take advantage of resources and assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) and the Connecticut National Guard.

Southwest Connecticut was the hardest hit by the storm and local leaders are already accusing Eversource of not being prepared. This is what Eversource spokesman, Mitch Gross, told the Hartford Courant,

We're asking our customers to prepare for multiple days without power. The damage is extensive, especially as you move further west. We're getting reports of entire trees being uprooted.

I didn't experience any downed trees this morning, but driving to the radio station from New Fairfield was like driving a slalom course. I truly feel bad about my fellow New Fairfileders who lost their power and I hope everyone is OK. I was told by a friend that last night there were lines to get into the Burger King and McDonalds on Padanaram Road. HEY 2020! Could you cut us some slack for Gods sake?!