Ganim declares Bridgeport storm emergency ahead of Henri,

Mayor declares Bridgeport storm emergency ahead of Henri

BRIDGEPORT— Mayor Joe Ganim declared a storm emergency for the city Saturday evening and told residents to “prepare for the worst” as Hurricane Henri heads toward Connecticut.

This includes preparation for significant flooding in addition to down trees and wires that will lead to power outages, he said.

“I’m asking all Bridgeport residents to prepare for the worst with this storm. We know there is going to be flooding with high wind activity and so downed wires, tree branches along with power outages are expected. At this point, residents should take every precaution to do what they can this evening to mitigate damage and have a prep kit ready and to stay home, stay safe,” Ganim said in a statement. “Do not try to drive during the storm, and don’t park on any emergency roads as we need first responders and storm crews to have safe passage for emergencies and restoration services.”

Henri strengthened to a Category 1 hurricane Saturday and continued to take aim at Connecticut, staying on course for an expected direct hit on Sunday morning.

A hurricane warning remains in effect for parts of Connecticut with storm surge along the coast expected to reach up to 3-5 feet.

Bridgeport residents in lowlying areas or along any water shore line are advised that their vehicles may be parked at municipal and school parking lots until 8 a.m. Monday. The designated parking lots are located at the amphitheater at 500 Broad St., Puglio Park at 3455 Madison Ave., Wonderland of Ice at 123 Glenwood Ave., and Klein Memorial at 910 Fairfield Ave.

City officials are advising other preparation measures for residents, including charging all electronic phones, tablets, and flashlights, moving your vehicle to high ground and away from trees, removing valuable items from basements if you live near in an area prone to flooding, and clearing debris from sewer grates or catch basins near your home.

Police and fire departments are prepared to assist individuals in need of rescue from vehicles, homes or water.

Emergency shelter is available for residents in need or who have to be evacuated from their homes at Geraldine Johnson School starting at 6 a.m. Sunday. Those in need of transportation to the emergency shelter can call 203-579-3829.

Trash, recycling, brown bag, and transfer station operation will be delayed for service until Tuesday.