Weather James Bairaktaris Weather James Bairaktaris

Rain Moves in as a Tropical Storm Henri Arrives over Montauk

Businesses on Main Street using sandbags or prefabricated flood blockers to protect the storefronts along the river. 
Businesses on Main Street using sandbags or prefabricated flood blockers to protect the storefronts along the river.

Editor’s Take

With a slightly more eastern track and a downgrade to a Tropical Storm, Henri is just now arriving to Montauk Point and will continue to make landfall somewhere just east of the Rhode Island/Connecticut border. All Hurricane Warnings have been cancelled, although heavy rain and storm surge is still forecast for the region. Some area businesses closed today, however a significant amount are open due to the calm of this morning. Heavy rain began to fall over the area as the outer bands circulate over Westport, with an expectation for things to ramp up in the next few hours.

Although not as powerful as expected, Henri is still going to create a stormy Sunday with the threat of power outages and regional flooding.

National Weather Service, NYC Update:

Henri is now a tropical storm, with maximum sustained winds of 70 mph. The center of Henri is currently 40 miles south-southeast of Montauk Point, and is moving north-northwest at 16 mph. On this track the center of Henri will likely pass very close to Montauk Point late this morning. and then track into southern New England through Monday while weakening.

The main threats from Henri continue to be potentially life- threatening storm surge, heavy rain capable of producing flash flooding, and tropical storm force winds along the south shore of Long Island and across southern Connecticut. There will also be associated marine and coastal hazards, including very rough seas, high surf, and and dangerous rip currents. Severe beach erosion is possible for coastal areas of Long Island Sound and portions of Suffolk County, including the Twin Forks region.

Widespread rainfall of 3 to 6 inches is forecast in the path of Henri with localized higher amounts possible. The highest amounts are forecast to occur across Long Island and much of southern Connecticut. Dangerous marine conditions are likely on the ocean waters south of Long Island, as well as on Long Island Sound, and the south shore and eastern bays of Long Island. Dangerous rip currents and high surf are expected along the ocean beaches of Long Island.

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Weather James Bairaktaris Weather James Bairaktaris

Office of Emergency Management Evening Update

The Westport Emergency Management Team released the following evening message in preparation for the arrival of Hurricane Henri.


Hurricane Henri will enter Westport in the early hours tomorrow, bringing very gusty winds and heavy rain. Deputy Fire Chief Michael Kronick urges, “Stay safe at home tomorrow. By staying off the roads, you will allow the Westport first responders quickly respond to incidents that may be a life-or-death situation.” 


Expect Widespread Power and Tree Issues:

Downed power lines can be deadly. Always assume that they are live and avoid going near them or anything in contact with them. 


Moderate to Major Coastal Flooding Expected: 

Do not walk or drive through floodwaters.  Never attempt to drive through a flooded road. As little as six inches of water can cause you to lose control of your car. If your building floods, move to a higher floor but do not enter a closed attic. Residents in flood-prone areas can move their vehicles to Saugatuck Avenue Train Station Lot # 8.


Closures: 

  • State beaches closed at 1:00pm today.

  • Westport beaches, golf course and marinas will be closed tomorrow. 


Storm Preparation:

  • To prepare for power outages, make sure your flashlights have working batteries. Fully charge your phone and backup chargers and consider filling your bathtub with water for washing in case you lose your water supply.

  • Stay informed. Tune into your local radio, news channels or weather apps/ websites for the latest updates. Sign up for NIXLE alerts from the Town’s Emergency Operations Center. Text: 06880 to 888 777

  • POTABLE water is available at the following filling stations. Please bring your containers. If you are disabled, elderly, or need special assistance, please contact us and we will help you fill your containers 203-341-5000 or 203-341-5010

Westport Fire HQ (515 Post Road East) 

Westport Coleytown Station (61 Easton Road)


During the Storm:

  • Stay home and stay off the roads.

  • Do not go sightseeing! Roads must be kept clear for emergency vehicles.

  • Do not drive through floodwaters or over downed wires.  Stay clear of downed power lines at least 25’.

  • Do not drive around barrier tape or barricades.

  • Stay inside and away from windows.

  • Report power outages to Eversource at 800-286-2000

  • Stay informed using social media and radio WWPD 90.3FM

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