Tropical Storm Elsa leads to flash floods in Connecticut

Parts of inland Connecticut are experiencing flash floods due to Tropical Storm Elsa on Friday morning. This is on top of three consecutive days of rain and thunderstorms that have hit the state.

Weak tree limbs were cut down by public work crews on Thursday to avoid damage. The method has been adopted as one of the ways of preventing 40 to 50 MPH winds from wreaking havoc.  Crews have been putting in an effort to keep the storm drains clear to curb flooding issues. Trimming branches have aided in the decrease of debris that may potentially block drains.

There was construction taking place outside the Palace Theater; a new sidewalk was being installed alongside the theater. Hopes are that the plastic tarp will protect the building’s progress from harmful elements.  In East Haven, the town’s Dept. of Public was seen bringing lifeguard stations from the beach and equipping themselves with saws in the case of tree damage.

The entire state is under a flash flood watch and rains between 1 and 5 inches can be seen. Northwestern Connecticut has seen the least amount and southeastern Connecticut the most. Both have caused roadways and basements in lower elevation areas to flood.