January 27, 2015 - Morning update on Winter Storm Colby

Storm Colby Message
January 27, 2015

Good morning this is Mayor Marcia Leclerc providing updated information regarding major winter storm Colby. Blizzard warnings remain in effect for the entire state.

East Hartford has no residence without power. All residents are asked to stay home. Last evening Gov. Malloy issued an order that prohibits traffic on all roads throughout the state of Connecticut until further notice.

Our Public Works department remains deployed for the duration of the storm and until all major and secondary roads are passable.

Due to the intensity and duration of the snow, and the demand on equipment,our public works department focused on major roadways throughout the night. Work has now begun clearing secondary roads and is expected to continue throughout the day. Many roads remain impassable at this time. Residents must stay in place until the roads are cleared and Gov. Malloy has lifted the state band in our area.

Our Emergency Operations Center continues to monitor conditions and current reports indicate that snow will be tapering off by noon.

Snow will continue to fall at the heaviest between 9 AM and noon today, coupled with sustained winds and significant drifting. Scattered flurries will continue throughout the day and will conclude around midnight tonight.

We ask residents to practice safe snow removal and assist their neighbors when possible. When clearing sidewalks and driveways residents are reminded not to place snow in the road. Doing so further complicates road clearing efforts and poses a danger to plow drivers. With the amount of snow received from the storm resident should expect to see several passes by the plows in front of their property over an extended period of time and should adjust their own snow clearing efforts accordingly. Help us help you by clearing any fire hydrants in or around your property.

Please take regular breaks don't eat heavy meals prior or soon after shoveling, listen to your body and know heart attack warning signs, restrain from alcohol beverages during and after shoveling, be aware of hypothermia, and calling 911 for police, fire, our medical emergencies is your best decision if a family member is at risk.

Lastly be patient and kind to our public works employees who have been working around-the-clock to clear our 350 miles of road passage in our community.

Stay home and stay safe.