Report by Paula Antolini, August 6, 2020, 5:21PM EDT
Storm Recovery Update, Thursday, August 6, 2020 @ Noon
Tropical Storm Isaias has turned out to be one of the most destructive storms in the Connecticut history. At the peak, more than 700,000 Connecticut homes and businesses were without power. In Bethel, slightly more than 5,800 homes and businesses were without electricity.
As of this morning, Eversource has reconnected about 215,000 homes around the state. In Bethel, yesterday Eversource crews reconnected about 750 customers. That leaves slightly more than 5,000 homes and businesses yet to be reconnected (this represents about 53% of the Eversource customer base in Bethel).
We are aware there are still roads blocked by downed trees with power lines tangled in them. Restoration work in those areas cannot begin until those roads are cleared. We are pressing Eversource with extreme urgency to supply more “make safe” crews to work alongside our own highway department staff to finish clearing those areas. As a reminder, our crews are not permitted to touch any trees where wires are involved.
Public Services Available
The municipal center will be open for charging devices until 8pm tonight and from 9am until 8pm Friday. It will also be open over the weekend from 9am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Stony Hill Fire Department will be open from 9am to 6pm today through the weekend for charging stations.
When using the facilities you will be asked a few health screening questions and will be required to wear a mask. Due to social distancing requirements, space is limited, and we ask that you spend no more than one hour in order to make space for other visitors.
Showers will be available at Bethel Middle School beginning today:
Thursday, Aug. 6 3pm – 7pm
Friday, Aug. 7 6am – 9am
3pm – 7pm
Saturday, Aug. 8 6am – Noon
Sunday, Aug. 9 6am – Noon
Enter at the back of the school. Signs will be posted to help guide you. Charging stations will also be available at BMS.
Matt Knickerbocker
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