Tornado Watch Issued for Northern Connecticut as Severe Thunderstorms and Heavy Rainfall Expected

Tornado Watch Issued for Northern Connecticut

The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for northern Connecticut on Sunday. The watch will be in effect until 3 p.m., replacing the previous watch that covered the entire state.

According to the service, a severe thunderstorm was reported over Plainville, near Farmington, moving northeast at 30 mph around 9:15 a.m. The storm brought with it wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

In addition to the tornado watch, a frontal system crossing the Northeast will bring showers and thunderstorms to the region on Sunday, accompanied by locally heavy downpours. The National Weather Service has also issued a Flood Watch until late Sunday night due to the expected heavy rainfall.

While a general 1-to-2-inch rainfall is expected, some areas could see as much as 3 to 5 inches or even more in isolated locations. The combination of heavy rain and strong thunderstorms raises concerns for damaging winds and the possibility of a tornado.

Hartford officials have emphasized the impact of climate change on the frequency and intensity of rainstorms in the Northeast. They stated that severe storms that would have occurred once in 200 years are now happening more regularly.

In light of the weather conditions, Hartford officials have issued safety tips for residents. These include clearing debris from gutters and downspouts, moving furniture and valuables to higher ground, and ensuring flashlights and non-perishable food are readily available in case of power outages. Residents are advised to stay home and avoid going for walks, as high winds can carry debris or knock down trees. Cars should be moved away from trees that could drop branches, and patio furniture should be brought indoors. It is also recommended to fill containers with drinking water and the bathtub with water for flushing toilets. Generators should be set up and run away from closed spaces and homes. In the event of a downed wire, residents are urged to assume it is live and to call 911.

Hartford city officials have also reminded residents that the Metropolitan District Commission (MDC) is the sewer authority for the city. In case of a sewer backup or emergency, residents can contact the MDC Command Center at (860) 278-7850 (press 1) or (860) 278-7850 Ext. 3600, which is available 24/7.

As the tornado watch remains in effect, residents are advised to stay updated on weather conditions and follow the safety guidelines provided by local officials.

What precautions should residents in the affected areas take in order to prepare for the possibility of tornadoes and severe weather conditions?

National Weather Service has advised residents in the affected areas to stay alert and be prepared for the possibility of tornadoes and severe weather conditions.

The tornado watch for northern Connecticut was issued as a precautionary measure due to the ongoing severe thunderstorm over Plainville. The storm has been moving rapidly northeast and has brought strong wind gusts of up to 60 mph.

The previous tornado watch that encompassed the entire state has now been replaced by the specific watch for northern Connecticut. This implies that the greatest risk of tornadoes and severe weather is concentrated in this particular region.

Furthermore, a frontal system is expected to cross the Northeast, bringing showers and thunderstorms to the area with the potential for heavy downpours. Residents are advised to stay informed about the weather conditions and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

It is essential to monitor updates from the National Weather Service and follow any instructions or warnings provided by local authorities. Being prepared with an emergency kit and having a plan in place can help mitigate potential risks during severe weather events.