Wintery Weather Gives Homeowners Something to Think About

As another winter storm hit Connecticut on Tuesday, bringing with it a mix of rain, ice, and snow to fall atop existing snowpacks, Public Safety Commissioner James Thomas, and the State Building Inspector are encouraging homeowners and businesses to ensure their roof drains are free of ice and any blockage to minimize the risks to flat roofs and decks.

“The storm that is expected in Connecticut Tuesday and Wednesday morning is likely to bring ice,rain, and snow – and liquid precipitation can add significantly to the weight of the existing snow that has already fallen,” Thomas said. “The biggest problems are for homes and businesses with flat roofs and for structures like decks where the rainfall we are expecting can add as much as 60 percent to the weight they are already carrying. Increased rainfall could add even more weight – and boost the risk of failure correspondingly.

“The best steps people can take right now are to inspect their drains and to stay alert. People with concerns about their roof loads should contact their local building official, or in case of emergency, their local fire department.”

The office of state fire Marshal and office of state building inspector will be prepared to assist any local officials.

Local and state officials will continue to monitor the storm in Connecticut and
residents need to pay strict attention to the volume of snow and ice on their homes and businesses.

Tuesday's storm made for a messy and slippery morning commute. Schools in East Hampton and Portland were closed and many activities were cancelled.

Gov. Dannell Malloy ordered the partial activation of the State Emergency Operations Center to monitor power outages and road conditions. 

"I am urging everyone to take it slow on the roads, and if you don't have to go out, please consider staying home until the plows have a chance to get through our roads following the morning commute," Malloy said.

As the storm made its way through the state, Connecticut Light and Power opened its Emergency Operations Center in Berlin.

As of 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, more than 600 were without power in Portland. In Middletown, more than 2,600 had no power.

More snow is expected for Friday.