Good Afternoon!  

This is a message about last night’s storm and the resulting power outages.  At this time, we do not have any firm estimates for restoration of power.  As crews are deployed and damage assessment progresses, restoration times will become available.  We expect to hear a restoration projection later tonight.  This morning there were over 3,100 outages and as of now there are about 2,850 out of the 9,075 customers that Eversource serves in Madison.   Eversource anticipates working through the night and is hopeful that they will restore power to all customers over the next two days.

Unfortunately, many of those without power are homes with wells, so we are providing water from a tanker at the North Madison Fire House and from hoses at Town Campus.  Both sources are potable, so the water can be used for cooking and drinking as well as washing and flushing toilets.

Eversource crews are working to restore emergency facilities and completely blocked roads as a first priority.  They are assessing damage and guarding downed wires.  In some situations, repairs have been delayed until the winds die down so they can safely operate their bucket trucks.  They will be working around the clock tonight and tomorrow until all service is restored.  Restoration is prioritized so that repairs benefitting the largest number of customers are made first.  

If you come upon downed wires, always remain at least 10 feet away, assume the wire is live, and call 9-1-1 and Eversource immediately. Maintain the minimum 10-foot distance until Eversource arrives to make the area safe. If you have any other emergency, call 9-1-1.  

If you are unable to get out of your home because of downed trees, or you need help and it is not an emergency, you can call the Madison Police Dispatch Center at 203-245-2721 or call a neighbor or friend.  

If you are using a generator, it should always be operated outdoors, as far from the house as possible. Keep it away from doors, windows and air vents to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning.  

We ask that if you are experiencing a power outage and haven’t done so, please contact Eversource customer service at 1-800-286-2000 to report it.  If they don’t know you’re out, it will take longer to get you restored.  You can also use their website at Eversource.com.

Thank you and stay safe!

Tom Banisch
First Selectman