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Tropical Storm Watch Issued For Southern Fairfield County Ahead of Jose

FAIRFIELD COUNTY, Conn. -- A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for southern Fairfield County ahead of Hurricane Jose, which is expected to pass the area Tuesday night into Wednesday and bring with it the potential for tropical storm force winds, coastal flooding, and heavy rainfall.

The track of Hurricane Jose, which is expected to pass the area this week, bringing the potential for tropical storm force rain, wind and flooding

The track of Hurricane Jose, which is expected to pass the area this week, bringing the potential for tropical storm force rain, wind and flooding

Photo Credit: National Weather Service

As of Monday morning, Jose is about 550 miles south-south east of New York City, moving north at about 9 mph, according to the National Weather Service. It is expected to track northward through mid week, and the best chance for tropical storm force winds and heavy rain will be across eastern Long Island and southeast Connecticut.

Minor to moderate coastal flooding is also expected, with widespread water levels of one to two feet and locally up to three feet above ground level possible.

Fairfield County residents should prepare for hazardous wind, which could potentially damage porches, awnings, carports, sheds and unanchored mobile homes. Tree limbs could be broken and a few trees could be snapped or uprooted, as well as some fences and roadway signs blown over. A few roads may be impassable from debris, particularly in urban or heavily wooded places.

Scattered power outages and communication outages may also occur.

Localized hazardous rainfall flooding may have possible limited impacts across southern Connecticut. Flooding may prompt a few evacuations, and rivers and streams may rise quickly with swifter currents. Small streams, creeks and canals may become swollen and could overflow at some spots.

Flood waters can enter a few structures, especially in usually vulnerable spots. A few places where rapid ponding of water occurs are at underpasses, low-lying spots, and poor drainage areas. Several storm drains and retention ponds may become near-full or begin to overflow, and there may be some brief road and bridge closures.

There may be storm surge flooding along shorelines and in low-lying spots, or in farther inland areas where higher surge waters move ashore. Sections of near-shore roads and parking lots may become overspread with surge water, and driving conditions could become dangerous in places where surge waters cover the road.

There could be moderate beach erosion, and heavy surf could also breach dunes, mainly in usually vulnerable locations. There will be strong and frequent rip currents, and minor to locally moderate damage to marinas, docks, boardwalks and piers. A few small craft could be broken away from moorings.

Residents should make sure that they have emergency plans in place and take necessary actions to secure their homes and businesses. Make sure that your emergency supplies kit is stocked and ready.

The National Weather Service warns that if you live in a place that is particularly vulnerable to high wind, such as a mobile home or on a boat, plan to move to safe shelter. Take enough supplies for you and your family for several days. if you live in a place prone to flooding, such as near the ocean, in a low lying or poor drainage area, plan to move to safe shelter on higher ground.

Heed the advice of local officials and comply with orders that are issued. Let friends and family members know of your intentions and whereabouts during the storm, and have someone located away from the threatened area serve as your point of contact.

Keep your cell phones are handy and charged. Be a Good Samaritan and check on those who may not be fully aware of the situation or are unable to make personal preparations. If you are a visitor to the area, become familiar with the nearby surroundings and know the name of the county in which you are located. if staying at a hotel, as the management about their onsite disaster plan.

Click here for more information on Jose's threat and impact to specific regions, and stay tuned for more updated forecasts.

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