Dear John,

I am writing with another update following last weekend's storm.  

On August 19, 2024, Governor Lamont declared a State of Civil Preparedness Emergency in response to the severe rainstorms, significant flooding, and considerable structural roadway damage impacting Connecticut. I joined the Connecticut delegation in writing to President Biden and FEMA in support of the request and within hours it was approved by the President. This declaration will be vital in getting the aid our state needs to recover from this storm. I have worked collaboratively with our local, state, and federal partners to facilitate next steps and ensuring our communities receive the necessary support and resources to safely rebuild remains a top priority.
 
I continue to monitor the situation and have been in touch with the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), the Connecticut Department of Transportation, the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, and the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, to ensure that damages are accurately documented for federal review.  To aid in this effort the Naugatuck Valley Council of Governments (NVCOG) has coordinated support efforts through DEMHS and has begun documenting areas of need by way of flying drones.

If you are traveling in the state, please be aware, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) has temporarily suspended the Waterbury and Danbury Metro North lines. Waterbury Branch services will be replaced by buses in both directions between Bridgeport and Waterbury until infrastructure repairs are completed. Metro North is currently assessing the damages and working to clear service areas.   

For more information follow new.mta.info bus departure times.

The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection, Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DESPP/DEMHS) has requested that damages from the storm be reported using the online Residential and Business Damage Assessment Form. To help streamline data collection and evaluate the extent of damages, the self-reporting link allows the public to identify their homes or businesses.

To submit a survey please click here.

I strongly encourage you and to remain informed and alert before traveling, as recovery efforts are expected to take several weeks. When traveling, residents should adhere to yellow tape and traffic cones and avoid traveling over flooded roadways. Please be mindful that not all roads have been inspected or cleared for safety.  

For real time updates on road closures, please visit ctroads.org.  

Again, thank you to our first responders, law enforcement personnel, and all who are tirelessly working to keep us safe. Should you need assistance, please do not hesitate to contact my office. 

 
 

Jahana Hayes 
Member of Congress