A Blizzard Warning has been issued for New Haven, New London and Middlesex Counties until 1 a.m. Friday.
Malloy activated the state's Emergency Operations Center Thursday morning. The state Department of Transportation has 634 state plow trucks and over 250 private contractor plow trucks ready to clear roads. The Connecticut State Police has extra units on the roads, and the state National Guard has more than 1,500 guardsmen read to support emergency operations, should it be necessary, Malloy said.
Eversource has 140 local contract line personnel and more than 400 tree resources dispersed across the state, Malloy said.
Malloy said that it is strongly recommended that drivers stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary so that DOT crews can clear highways efficiently and safely. If you must travel, stay clear of plow trucks and do not attempt to pass. He said that employers that can allow people to work from home or alter their hours are encouraged to do so.
Power outages that are experienced during the storm could be prolonged due to the anticipation of high winds over 35 mph, which would make it impossible to put up a bucket truck. Mobile devices should be kept fully charged through the duration of the snow, and residents and businesses should be cautious that power outages may result in frozen and bursting pipes.
Do not operate a generator or burn charcoal inside. Properly ventilate kerosene heaters. Make sure outdoor vents are clear of snow. Residents are also encouraged to clear fire hydrants in their area so that firefighters can get to it in case of an emergency.
Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors or neighbors with disabilities. If you know someone in need of shelter, call 2-1-1 for locations. There are at least 108 warming centers open in 34 towns throughout Connecticut.
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