This is a message about today’s snowfall and the resulting power outages. Parts of town have received almost a foot of snow, while the majority got about 8 inches. The majority of the outages are related to tree and limb damage, as the heavy, wet snow has caused trees and limbs to make contact with power lines causing scattered outages around town. In the event of a downed wire, 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.

Eversource crews are working around the clock to assess damage and restore power for every customer. Crews have been deployed across the state prioritizing emergency 9-1-1 calls, clearing blocked roads and assessing damage. Restoration is prioritized so that repairs benefitting the largest number of customers are made first.

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, and they expect to announce a global restoration projection later tonight. This afternoon there were over 700 outages and as of now we are down to about 550. Eversource anticipates working through the night and is hopeful that they will restore power to all customers at some point tomorrow.

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.

The storm has tapered off, but crews will remain out to assure that all streets are plowed. As always, there is no overnight parking on any street in Madison.

If you need help and it is not an emergency, you can call the Madison Police at 203-245-2721 or a neighbor or friend. If you are faced with an emergency, call 9-1-1.

Thank you and stay warm!

Tom Banisch
First Selectman
Madison, CT