By Ken Valenti

The time to prepare for the approaching nor’easter is now.

The Town of Westport urged residents to brace for winds strong enough to bring down trees, power outages, prolonged rain and coastal flooding as the powerful storm attacking the East Coast moves into the area today and continues through Sunday.

“Please use today to prepare, particularly if you live near the shoreline or in an area that has flooded before,” said Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Nick Marsan. “Move vehicles to higher ground, secure loose items and make sure you can receive emergency alerts. If a road is flooded or barricaded, turn around.”

Expect north to northeast wind gusts of 40 to 50 mph, locally up to 55 mph, the town said in an advisory.

The National Weather Service advises that the nor’easter “will bring significant coastal impacts to the Mid-Atlantic and New England through the weekend. Moderate to major coastal flooding, heavy rain, strong winds and high surf expected.”

Flooding is possible in areas with poor drainage and along rivers and streams. Coastal flooding is a concern across several high tides, with Sunday morning currently expected to bring the greatest impacts. Low-lying shoreline roads and properties may flood; residents should continue to check forecast updates throughout the weekend, the town advised.

Power outages are also expected, particularly along the coast, Westport’s advisory said. Soil saturated by recent rainfall may make trees more vulnerable to falling during the persistent wind event, the town said. Residents are urged to treat every downed wire as live and dangerous – stay clear, keep others away from it and call 911 to report it.

“We know many residents and businesses are still recovering from the September 13 flooding,” said First Selectman Kevin Christie. “Town departments are monitoring this storm closely, and we will share information as conditions change. Please check on neighbors who may need help preparing.”

Planning a flight? Be prepared for a flight delay or cancellation. 

If you don’t have to be on the road during the high winds and rain, stay home, AAA Northeast urges. If you must drive, AAA offers these tips:

  • Ensure your vehicle is ready for the weather. Fill the gas tank, test the battery, ensure tires are properly inflated and replace worn wiper blades. Always keep an emergency kit inside your vehicle that includes essentials such as first-aid supplies, extra phone chargers, high-visibility vests and jumper cables or a battery booster pack.
  • Proceed with caution. When driving during the storm, adjust your plans to account for the weather. Reduce your speed and leave plenty of extra room between your vehicle and those around you to prepare for the longer stopping distances on wet roads.
  • Slow down and move over. Roadside assistance providers, first responders and maintenance workers will be navigating difficult driving conditions as they work to keep people safe and make needed repairs. Whenever you approach any vehicle at the roadside, slow down and, if safe to do so, move over to give them space.

The most likely forecast calls for 2 to 3.5 inches of rain, with the heaviest downpour expected near the coast, the town advised.

Westport’s first responders and Public Works crews are preparing for the storm and will respond as conditions develop, the town said.

“For everyone’s safety, residents should follow emergency alerts and directions from public safety officials and obey all road closures and barricades,” the town advisory says. “Secure outdoor items, charge essential devices and clear leaves from nearby drains where it is safe to do so. Never drive through floodwater.”

To receive Westport emergency updates, sign up for Nixle by texting 06880 to 888777 or registering at nixle.com.

AAA Northeast offered further tips, including:

  • Secure loose outdoor furniture. If your outdoor furniture hasn’t been stored for the season, move everything inside if possible and secure what must remain outside.
  • Review and replenish emergency supply kits. Don’t get caught off-guard if power goes out. Take stock of flashlights, batteries and portable chargers. Fully charge any rechargeable batteries and electronics before the storm arrives.
  • Check around windows, doors and vents. Caulk any gaps and cracks to minimize further damage and prevent water intrusion.

Ken Valenti

A career journalist and lifelong resident of the New York City region, Ken Valenti has enjoyed decades of reporting local, regional and national news in New York and Connecticut. Topics of special interest are development, the environment, Long Island Sound and transportation. When not reporting, he’s always on the lookout for the perfect coffee shop or used book sale.