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==Background== |
==Background== |
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[[File:Irene 2011 track.png|thumb|left|Track of Hurricane Irene]] |
[[File:Irene 2011 track.png|thumb|left|Track of Hurricane Irene]] |
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Since the 1600s, Connecticut has been affected by 73 [[tropical cyclone]]s, few of which have made [[Landfall (meteorology)|landfall]] in the state. Of these storms, the [[1938 New England hurricane]] is regarded as the single-most destructive natural disaster in Connecticut history, causing considerable loss of life and widespread damage. Prior to Irene, the most recent hurricane to strike the state was [[Hurricane Gloria]] in [[1985 Atlantic hurricane season|1985]] which moved through the region as a [[SSHS#Category 1|Category 1]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Philip R. Devlin|publisher=Suffield Patch|date=August 29, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Connecticut's No Stranger to Hurricanes |
Since the 1600s, Connecticut has been affected by 73 [[tropical cyclone]]s, few of which have made [[Landfall (meteorology)|landfall]] in the state. Of these storms, the [[1938 New England hurricane]] is regarded as the single-most destructive natural disaster in Connecticut history, causing considerable loss of life and widespread damage. Prior to Irene, the most recent hurricane to strike the state was [[Hurricane Gloria]] in [[1985 Atlantic hurricane season|1985]] which moved through the region as a [[SSHS#Category 1|Category 1]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Philip R. Devlin|publisher=Suffield Patch|date=August 29, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Connecticut's No Stranger to Hurricanes|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61Ia3xjko}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> However, several tropical storms since then have impacted Connecticut, such as [[Hurricane Hanna (2008)|Tropical Storm Hanna]] in [[2008 Atlantic hurricane season|2008]].<ref>{{cite web|author=David M. Roth|work=Hydrometeorological Prediction Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|year=2009|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Tropical Storm Hanna - August 31-September 7, 2008 |url=http://www.hpc.ncep.noaa.gov/tropical/rain/hanna2008.html}}</ref> |
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On August 21, 2011, a [[tropical wave]] near the [[Lesser Antilles]] became sufficiently organized to be classified as Tropical Storm Irene, the ninth named storm of the [[2011 Atlantic hurricane season|2011 season]].<ref name="TCR"/> Tracking generally towards the west-northwest,<ref>{{cite web|author=Richard Pasch|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 21, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Tropical Storm Irene Public Advisory Four|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.public.004.shtml?}}</ref> the system struck [[Puerto Rico]] early on August 22 and intensified into a hurricane shortly thereafter.<ref>{{cite web|author=Stacy Stewart|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 22, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Tropical Storm Irene Tropical Cyclone Update|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.update.08220530.shtml?}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Stacy Stewart|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 22, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Public Advisory Seven|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.public.007.shtml?}}</ref> As Irene moved through the [[Bahamas]], a distinct [[Eye (cyclone)|eye]], surrounded by deep [[Atmospheric convection|convection]], appeared on satellite imagery. [[Hurricane Hunters]] flying in the storm determined that the cyclone attained major hurricane status – Category 3 or higher on the [[Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Scale]] – by August 24.<ref>{{cite web|author=Daniel P. Brown|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 24, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Discussion Seventeen|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.discus.017.shtml?}}</ref> The following day, a long-awaited northward turn took place as Irene approached [[Abaco Island]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Daniel P. Brown|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Public Advisory Twenty-One|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.public.021.shtml?}}</ref> As the storm tracked towards [[United States]], structural changes accompanied by [[wind shear]], an environmental factor that weakens hurricanes, caused the system to gradually weaken.<ref>{{cite web|author=Jack Beven|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 26, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Discussion Twenty-Four|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.discus.024.shtml?}}</ref> |
On August 21, 2011, a [[tropical wave]] near the [[Lesser Antilles]] became sufficiently organized to be classified as Tropical Storm Irene, the ninth named storm of the [[2011 Atlantic hurricane season|2011 season]].<ref name="TCR"/> Tracking generally towards the west-northwest,<ref>{{cite web|author=Richard Pasch|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 21, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Tropical Storm Irene Public Advisory Four|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.public.004.shtml?}}</ref> the system struck [[Puerto Rico]] early on August 22 and intensified into a hurricane shortly thereafter.<ref>{{cite web|author=Stacy Stewart|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 22, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Tropical Storm Irene Tropical Cyclone Update|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.update.08220530.shtml?}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|author=Stacy Stewart|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 22, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Public Advisory Seven|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.public.007.shtml?}}</ref> As Irene moved through the [[Bahamas]], a distinct [[Eye (cyclone)|eye]], surrounded by deep [[Atmospheric convection|convection]], appeared on satellite imagery. [[Hurricane Hunters]] flying in the storm determined that the cyclone attained major hurricane status – Category 3 or higher on the [[Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Scale]] – by August 24.<ref>{{cite web|author=Daniel P. Brown|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 24, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Discussion Seventeen|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.discus.017.shtml?}}</ref> The following day, a long-awaited northward turn took place as Irene approached [[Abaco Island]].<ref>{{cite web|author=Daniel P. Brown|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Public Advisory Twenty-One|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.public.021.shtml?}}</ref> As the storm tracked towards [[United States]], structural changes accompanied by [[wind shear]], an environmental factor that weakens hurricanes, caused the system to gradually weaken.<ref>{{cite web|author=Jack Beven|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=August 26, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene Discussion Twenty-Four|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/archive/2011/al09/al092011.discus.024.shtml?}}</ref> |
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==Preparations== |
==Preparations== |
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[[File:Hurricane Irene Aug 27 2011 1910Z.jpg|thumb|right|Satellite image of Hurricane Irene off the [[East Coast of the United States]] on August 27]] |
[[File:Hurricane Irene Aug 27 2011 1910Z.jpg|thumb|right|Satellite image of Hurricane Irene off the [[East Coast of the United States]] on August 27]] |
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As early as August 24, residents in parts of Connecticut began bracing themselves for a potential strike from a hurricane. [[Meteorologist]]s reportedly received calls from residents in a panic wanting to know the trajectory of Irene. Local mayors initiated debris removal operations across many highways and local roads. The [[first selectman]] of [[Bethel, Connecticut|Bethel]] stated that [[sandbag]]s were already being readied to protect certain areas from [[flood]]ing.<ref>{{cite web|author=Robert Miller|publisher=News Times|date=August 24, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene poised to strike Connecticut|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IakOLyX}}</ref> By August 25, Governor [[Dan Malloy|Dannel P. Malloy]] declared a [[state of emergency]], allowing the state to order evacuations and protect the well-being of residents. In a press conference, Malloy urged residents "to take the storm 'as seriously as any event we've ever prepared for.'" In light of this, stores reported a significant increase in sales; items such as generators, batteries and flashlights sold in large numbers across the state. Due to the threat of widespread power outages, [[Connecticut Light & Power]] canceled vacations and placed all personnel on standby in advance of the storm.<ref name="HC1">{{cite web|author=John Christofferson|agency=Associated Press|publisher=Houston Chronicle|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Conn resident stock up provisions ahead of Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IbJYAyN}}</ref> |
As early as August 24, residents in parts of Connecticut began bracing themselves for a potential strike from a hurricane. [[Meteorologist]]s reportedly received calls from residents in a panic wanting to know the trajectory of Irene. Local mayors initiated debris removal operations across many highways and local roads. The [[first selectman]] of [[Bethel, Connecticut|Bethel]] stated that [[sandbag]]s were already being readied to protect certain areas from [[flood]]ing.<ref>{{cite web|author=Robert Miller|publisher=News Times|date=August 24, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Hurricane Irene poised to strike Connecticut|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IakOLyX}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> By August 25, Governor [[Dan Malloy|Dannel P. Malloy]] declared a [[state of emergency]], allowing the state to order evacuations and protect the well-being of residents. In a press conference, Malloy urged residents "to take the storm 'as seriously as any event we've ever prepared for.'" In light of this, stores reported a significant increase in sales; items such as generators, batteries and flashlights sold in large numbers across the state. Due to the threat of widespread power outages, [[Connecticut Light & Power]] canceled vacations and placed all personnel on standby in advance of the storm.<ref name="HC1">{{cite web|author=John Christofferson|agency=Associated Press|publisher=Houston Chronicle|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Conn resident stock up provisions ahead of Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IbJYAyN}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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Towns across Connecticut began enacting emergency plans, such as designating and preparing shelters, on August 25. Local [[Board of selectmen|boards of selectmen]] held several meetings on which areas required public shelters and what buildings to use for this purpose.<ref>{{cite web|author=Michael Hayes|publisher=Killingworth-Durham-Middlefield Patch|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Towns Plan for Irene's Arrival |
Towns across Connecticut began enacting emergency plans, such as designating and preparing shelters, on August 25. Local [[Board of selectmen|boards of selectmen]] held several meetings on which areas required public shelters and what buildings to use for this purpose.<ref>{{cite web|author=Michael Hayes|publisher=Killingworth-Durham-Middlefield Patch|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Towns Plan for Irene's Arrival|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61Ic5nAYN}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> In some areas, school districts decided to delay their first day until August 30 while others until September 1.[[Central Connecticut State University]] also canceled classes for August 29.<ref>{{cite web|author=Bob Connors|publisher=NBC Connecticut|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Irene Changing Back to School Plans|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IcUYbCd}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Early on August 26, a [[Tropical cyclone warnings and watches|hurricane watch]] was issued for the entire Connecticut coastline and tropical storm warnings were put in place for all inland counties.<ref name="TCR">{{cite web|author=Lixion A. Avila and John Cangialosi|work=National Hurricane Center|publisher=National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration|date=December 14, 2011|accessdate=March 12, 2012|title=Tropical Cyclone Report: Hurricane Irene|url=http://www.nhc.noaa.gov/data/tcr/AL092011_Irene.pdf}}</ref> All campgrounds and state parks were planned to be shut down by August 28 due to dangerous conditions.<ref name="HC1"/> |
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In [[Norwich, Connecticut|Norwich]], emergency officials prepared 10,000 sandbags and stated 4,000 more could be filled if needed.<ref>{{cite web|author=Alison Shea|publisher=Norwich Bulletin|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Eastern Connecticut prepares for Hurricane Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61ImzFsdx}}</ref> Voluntary evacuations orders were also issued of residents living in low-lying areas or mobile homes in Norwich.<ref>{{cite web|author=James Craven|publisher=Norwich Bulletin|date=August 27, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Norwich officials call for voluntary evacuations|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IoN9uA5}}</ref> About 200 [[Connecticut National Guard]] soldiers were notified to be deployed in state on August 28 while 500 others were placed on standby. Mass transit, including all [[Metro-North]] trains, across the state was shut down for the duration of the storm, beginning on the evening of August 27. At the [[Naval Submarine Base New London]] in [[Groton, Connecticut|Groton]], all submarines were moved out to sea to ride out the storm before being allowed to return.<ref name="TR1">{{cite web|author=Hillary Federico |
In [[Norwich, Connecticut|Norwich]], emergency officials prepared 10,000 sandbags and stated 4,000 more could be filled if needed.<ref>{{cite web|author=Alison Shea|publisher=Norwich Bulletin|date=August 25, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Eastern Connecticut prepares for Hurricane Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61ImzFsdx}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Voluntary evacuations orders were also issued of residents living in low-lying areas or mobile homes in Norwich.<ref>{{cite web|author=James Craven|publisher=Norwich Bulletin|date=August 27, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Norwich officials call for voluntary evacuations|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IoN9uA5}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> About 200 [[Connecticut National Guard]] soldiers were notified to be deployed in state on August 28 while 500 others were placed on standby. Mass transit, including all [[Metro-North]] trains, across the state was shut down for the duration of the storm, beginning on the evening of August 27. At the [[Naval Submarine Base New London]] in [[Groton, Connecticut|Groton]], all submarines were moved out to sea to ride out the storm before being allowed to return.<ref name="TR1">{{cite web|author=Hillary Federico|work=The Hartford Courant|publisher=The Republic|date=August 26, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Connecticut braces for Irene's impact|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61InTdhsG}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Mandatory evacuations of coastal areas in [[Fairfield, Connecticut|Fairfield]] were implemented on August 27 and roads across the city were to be mostly closed by the following afternoon. A local high school was also converted into a shelter for evacuees.<ref>{{cite web|author=Greg Canuel|publisher=The Daily Fairfield|date=August 26, 2011|accessdate=August 29, 2011|title=Fairfield Plans Evacuations For Hurricane Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/61IoANuld}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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==Impact== |
==Impact== |
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==Aftermath== |
==Aftermath== |
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Following Irene's passage on August 28, Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman began viewing damage from the storm in [[West Haven, Connecticut|West Haven]] and [[East Haven, Connecticut|East Haven]]. The governor also made a public briefing that evening to residents from the emergency operations center.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 28, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy, LG Wyman View Storm Damage, Visit Shelters in East Haven, West Haven|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CpLrlfD|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> Later on August 28, it was announced that all non-essential employees were to return to work the following day unless their workplace was without power.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 28, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy: Non-Essential State Employees to Report to Work on Monday at 10 a.m.; Essential Employees Report on Regular Schedule|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CpZfaLt|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> In light of severe damage across state parks, beaches and campgrounds, most facilities were kept closed through September 1 and some until September 2.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 28, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Connecticut State Parks, Beaches and Campgrounds to Remain Closed through at Least Monday|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66Cpi7zOd}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 1, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=State Parks and Beaches Open for Free Friday Through Monday At Direction of Governor Malloy|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqUuWef}}</ref> Following a fuel assessment by [[Federal Trade Commission#Bureau of Consumer Protectio|Department of Consumer Protection]] Commissioner William M. Rubenstein, residents were advised that although there was a sufficient amount of gasoline available, lack of distribution centers would limit the amount that could be purchased. As a result, Rubenstein suggested limited driving until services were restored.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 30, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Department of Consumer Protection Reports on Fuel Supply and Offers Advice on Gasoline Use Following Tropical Storm Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CpytNJt|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> |
Following Irene's passage on August 28, Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman began viewing damage from the storm in [[West Haven, Connecticut|West Haven]] and [[East Haven, Connecticut|East Haven]]. The governor also made a public briefing that evening to residents from the emergency operations center.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 28, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy, LG Wyman View Storm Damage, Visit Shelters in East Haven, West Haven|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CpLrlfD|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Later on August 28, it was announced that all non-essential employees were to return to work the following day unless their workplace was without power.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 28, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy: Non-Essential State Employees to Report to Work on Monday at 10 a.m.; Essential Employees Report on Regular Schedule|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CpZfaLt|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> In light of severe damage across state parks, beaches and campgrounds, most facilities were kept closed through September 1 and some until September 2.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 28, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Connecticut State Parks, Beaches and Campgrounds to Remain Closed through at Least Monday|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66Cpi7zOd}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 1, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=State Parks and Beaches Open for Free Friday Through Monday At Direction of Governor Malloy|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqUuWef}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Following a fuel assessment by [[Federal Trade Commission#Bureau of Consumer Protectio|Department of Consumer Protection]] Commissioner William M. Rubenstein, residents were advised that although there was a sufficient amount of gasoline available, lack of distribution centers would limit the amount that could be purchased. As a result, Rubenstein suggested limited driving until services were restored.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 30, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Department of Consumer Protection Reports on Fuel Supply and Offers Advice on Gasoline Use Following Tropical Storm Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CpytNJt|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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On August 31, a state-run donation center was set up for residents affected by the storm.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 31, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy: People Wishing to Donate to Hurricane Relief May do so Through Safe, Secure Website|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqDQl2D|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> On September 1, officials from the [[Federal Emergency Management Agency|Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)]] began touring the hardest hit areas of the state.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 1, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Today: Lt. Governor Wyman, FEMA Officials to Assess Damage in East Lyme, Waterford and Groton|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqMAIee|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> The [[Department of Motor Vehicles]] announced that residents with licenses expiring between August 27 and September 12 would be allowed to delay license renewal until September 12 without late fees.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 1, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=DMV Extends Expirations of Licenses, Registrations and Other Credentials|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqgQLbs|location=Wethersfield, Connecticut}}</ref> |
On August 31, a state-run donation center was set up for residents affected by the storm.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=August 31, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy: People Wishing to Donate to Hurricane Relief May do so Through Safe, Secure Website|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqDQl2D|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> On September 1, officials from the [[Federal Emergency Management Agency|Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)]] began touring the hardest hit areas of the state.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 1, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Today: Lt. Governor Wyman, FEMA Officials to Assess Damage in East Lyme, Waterford and Groton|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqMAIee|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> The [[Department of Motor Vehicles]] announced that residents with licenses expiring between August 27 and September 12 would be allowed to delay license renewal until September 12 without late fees.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 1, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=DMV Extends Expirations of Licenses, Registrations and Other Credentials|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CqgQLbs|location=Wethersfield, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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On September 2, Governor Malloy announced that $1 million in federal funds would be available for transportation infrastructure repairs. The [[Connecticut Department of Transportation]] also estimated that clean-up costs across the state would reach $5 million.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 2, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy Announces $1 Million in Federal Emergency Relief Funds for Transportation Infrastructure Repairs and Clean Up Due to Hurricane Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CquCuYJ|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> Later that day, [[United States President|President]] [[Barack Obama]] signed a [[disaster declaration]] for Connecticut, allowing federal aid to be distributed throughout the state for recovery efforts.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 2, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=President Obama Signs Connecticut Disaster Declaration|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66Cr4dV7D}}</ref> Following further FEMA assessments, it was deemed that all eight counties of Connecticut were eligible for disaster assistance on September 4.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 4, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy: Three Remaining Connecticut Counties Qualify for Disaster Assistance Funding from FEMA|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CrErFc2}}</ref> On September 7, nine FEMA disaster recovery centers opened up across the state to assist residents and businesses with losses.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 7, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy Announces FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Open Across State|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CrPZrse|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> |
On September 2, Governor Malloy announced that $1 million in federal funds would be available for transportation infrastructure repairs. The [[Connecticut Department of Transportation]] also estimated that clean-up costs across the state would reach $5 million.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 2, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy Announces $1 Million in Federal Emergency Relief Funds for Transportation Infrastructure Repairs and Clean Up Due to Hurricane Irene|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CquCuYJ|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Later that day, [[United States President|President]] [[Barack Obama]] signed a [[disaster declaration]] for Connecticut, allowing federal aid to be distributed throughout the state for recovery efforts.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 2, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=President Obama Signs Connecticut Disaster Declaration|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66Cr4dV7D}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Following further FEMA assessments, it was deemed that all eight counties of Connecticut were eligible for disaster assistance on September 4.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 4, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy: Three Remaining Connecticut Counties Qualify for Disaster Assistance Funding from FEMA|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CrErFc2}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> On September 7, nine FEMA disaster recovery centers opened up across the state to assist residents and businesses with losses.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 7, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy Announces FEMA Disaster Recovery Centers Open Across State|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CrPZrse|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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Once the initial disaster response plan had been completed, the state Government created a panel on September 13, known as the State Team Organized for the Review of Management of Irene (S.T.O.R.M. Irene), to assess how the state prepared for, handled, and was recovering from the hurricane.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 13, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy Appoints Members of S.T.O.R.M. Irene Panel|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CreIAKs|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}</ref> |
Once the initial disaster response plan had been completed, the state Government created a panel on September 13, known as the State Team Organized for the Review of Management of Irene (S.T.O.R.M. Irene), to assess how the state prepared for, handled, and was recovering from the hurricane.<ref>{{cite web|publisher=Government of Connecticut|date=September 13, 2011|accessdate=March 16, 2012|title=Gov. Malloy Appoints Members of S.T.O.R.M. Irene Panel|url=http://www.webcitation.org/66CreIAKs|location=Hartford, Connecticut}}{{Dead link|date=February 2024 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
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Tropical Storm Irene over New England on August 28
| |
| Tropical storm | |
|---|---|
| 1-minute sustained (SSHWS/NWS) | |
| Highest winds | 45 mph (75 km/h) |
| Highest gusts | 65 mph (100 km/h) |
| Overall effects | |
| Fatalities | 10 |
| Damage | $68 million (2011 USD) |
| Areas affected | Connecticut |
| [1] | |
Part of the 2011 Atlantic hurricane season | |
The effects of Hurricane Irene in Connecticut were not as severe as farther south in New York and New Jersey, where the storm actually made landfall. Nonetheless, Connecticut still saw tropical storm force winds as a result of the hurricane which were attributed to 10 deaths.
Since the 1600s, Connecticut has been affected by 73 tropical cyclones, few of which have made landfall in the state. Of these storms, the 1938 New England hurricane is regarded as the single-most destructive natural disaster in Connecticut history, causing considerable loss of life and widespread damage. Prior to Irene, the most recent hurricane to strike the state was Hurricane Gloriain1985 which moved through the region as a Category 1.[2] However, several tropical storms since then have impacted Connecticut, such as Tropical Storm Hannain2008.[3]
On August 21, 2011, a tropical wave near the Lesser Antilles became sufficiently organized to be classified as Tropical Storm Irene, the ninth named storm of the 2011 season.[4] Tracking generally towards the west-northwest,[5] the system struck Puerto Rico early on August 22 and intensified into a hurricane shortly thereafter.[6][7] As Irene moved through the Bahamas, a distinct eye, surrounded by deep convection, appeared on satellite imagery. Hurricane Hunters flying in the storm determined that the cyclone attained major hurricane status – Category 3 or higher on the Saffir–Simpson Hurricane Scale – by August 24.[8] The following day, a long-awaited northward turn took place as Irene approached Abaco Island.[9] As the storm tracked towards United States, structural changes accompanied by wind shear, an environmental factor that weakens hurricanes, caused the system to gradually weaken.[10]
On the morning of August 27, Irene made landfall as a Category 1 hurricane near Cape Lookout, North Carolina.[11] Structural degradation over the following day resulting in slow weakening of the storm as it approached New England.[12] After weakening to a tropical storm early on August 28, Irene made another landfall, this time in New Jersey, before moving back over water. Several hours later, the system moved onshore a final time near New York City.[4] Tracking northward over New York and later New England, Irene gradually lost its tropical characteristics and early on August 29, the final advisory on the storm was issued by the National Hurricane Center; by this time, the cyclone was situated over northern New England.[13]
As early as August 24, residents in parts of Connecticut began bracing themselves for a potential strike from a hurricane. Meteorologists reportedly received calls from residents in a panic wanting to know the trajectory of Irene. Local mayors initiated debris removal operations across many highways and local roads. The first selectmanofBethel stated that sandbags were already being readied to protect certain areas from flooding.[14] By August 25, Governor Dannel P. Malloy declared a state of emergency, allowing the state to order evacuations and protect the well-being of residents. In a press conference, Malloy urged residents "to take the storm 'as seriously as any event we've ever prepared for.'" In light of this, stores reported a significant increase in sales; items such as generators, batteries and flashlights sold in large numbers across the state. Due to the threat of widespread power outages, Connecticut Light & Power canceled vacations and placed all personnel on standby in advance of the storm.[15]
Towns across Connecticut began enacting emergency plans, such as designating and preparing shelters, on August 25. Local boards of selectmen held several meetings on which areas required public shelters and what buildings to use for this purpose.[16] In some areas, school districts decided to delay their first day until August 30 while others until September 1.Central Connecticut State University also canceled classes for August 29.[17] Early on August 26, a hurricane watch was issued for the entire Connecticut coastline and tropical storm warnings were put in place for all inland counties.[4] All campgrounds and state parks were planned to be shut down by August 28 due to dangerous conditions.[15]
InNorwich, emergency officials prepared 10,000 sandbags and stated 4,000 more could be filled if needed.[18] Voluntary evacuations orders were also issued of residents living in low-lying areas or mobile homes in Norwich.[19] About 200 Connecticut National Guard soldiers were notified to be deployed in state on August 28 while 500 others were placed on standby. Mass transit, including all Metro-North trains, across the state was shut down for the duration of the storm, beginning on the evening of August 27. At the Naval Submarine Base New LondoninGroton, all submarines were moved out to sea to ride out the storm before being allowed to return.[20] Mandatory evacuations of coastal areas in Fairfield were implemented on August 27 and roads across the city were to be mostly closed by the following afternoon. A local high school was also converted into a shelter for evacuees.[21]
Although the center of Irene passed through southwestern Connecticut, the storm's asymmetric structure and weakened state limited the effects of winds across the state.[4] However, the long duration of winds in excess of 30 mph (48 km/h) led to widespread tree damage that left more than 750,000 people without power.[22][23] The strongest gusts were recorded well to the east of the center, peaking at 66 mph (106 km/h) in Thompson, Connecticut.[24] Across Connecticut, Hurricane Irene produced significant rainfall, peaking at 10.15 in (258 mm) in New HartfordinLitchfield County. Portions of Connecticut Route 15 closed due to the storm.[25] In total, 10 people died in Connecticut due to the Hurricane.[26]
Following Irene's passage on August 28, Governor Dannel P. Malloy and Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman began viewing damage from the storm in West Haven and East Haven. The governor also made a public briefing that evening to residents from the emergency operations center.[27] Later on August 28, it was announced that all non-essential employees were to return to work the following day unless their workplace was without power.[28] In light of severe damage across state parks, beaches and campgrounds, most facilities were kept closed through September 1 and some until September 2.[29][30] Following a fuel assessment by Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner William M. Rubenstein, residents were advised that although there was a sufficient amount of gasoline available, lack of distribution centers would limit the amount that could be purchased. As a result, Rubenstein suggested limited driving until services were restored.[31]
On August 31, a state-run donation center was set up for residents affected by the storm.[32] On September 1, officials from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) began touring the hardest hit areas of the state.[33] The Department of Motor Vehicles announced that residents with licenses expiring between August 27 and September 12 would be allowed to delay license renewal until September 12 without late fees.[34]
On September 2, Governor Malloy announced that $1 million in federal funds would be available for transportation infrastructure repairs. The Connecticut Department of Transportation also estimated that clean-up costs across the state would reach $5 million.[35] Later that day, President Barack Obama signed a disaster declaration for Connecticut, allowing federal aid to be distributed throughout the state for recovery efforts.[36] Following further FEMA assessments, it was deemed that all eight counties of Connecticut were eligible for disaster assistance on September 4.[37] On September 7, nine FEMA disaster recovery centers opened up across the state to assist residents and businesses with losses.[38]
Once the initial disaster response plan had been completed, the state Government created a panel on September 13, known as the State Team Organized for the Review of Management of Irene (S.T.O.R.M. Irene), to assess how the state prepared for, handled, and was recovering from the hurricane.[39]
