Connecticut is susceptible to the powerful forces of hurricanes and tropical storms despite its northern location on the Atlantic coast. A hurricane is a tropical cyclone with sustained winds of 74 miles per hour (mph) or higher, while a tropical storm has winds between 39 and 73 mph. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th. The most threatening period for Connecticut typically falls between mid-August and mid-October. Although the state rarely experiences a direct hit from a major Category 3 or higher hurricane, the impacts from weaker storms can still be devastating.
Connecticut’s Vulnerability and Storm Frequency
Connecticut’s southern exposure and the east-west orientation of its shoreline contribute significantly to its vulnerability. Long Island Sound, separating Connecticut from Long Island, New York, does not offer complete protection. While Long Island acts as a buffer, the Sound’s shape can intensify the storm surge threat.
The state experiences a significant impact from a tropical storm or hurricane roughly once every 10 to 12 years. Since 1900, over 20 tropical cyclones have affected Connecticut, causing widespread damage. Because hurricanes tend to weaken over cooler northern waters, Connecticut often faces tropical storms or post-tropical cyclones. The state is subject to three major threats: coastal flooding, widespread wind damage, and extensive inland flooding.
Specific Hazards Associated with Connecticut Tropical Storms
The most dangerous hazard for coastal Connecticut is the storm surge, an abnormal rise of water generated by a storm’s winds. The funneling effect of Long Island Sound dramatically increases the surge height, pushing massive amounts of water inland. This inundation can reach several miles inland along the coastline and major rivers, causing significant loss of life and property.
Inland flooding from heavy rainfall is a primary threat, often causing more drowning deaths than storm surge over time. Slow-moving tropical storms can produce torrential rains, sometimes exceeding 16 inches over 24 to 36 hours, leading to riverine and urban flooding. This fresh water flooding can persist for days, even after a storm dissipates.
High winds, even below hurricane strength, cause widespread damage, especially to trees and utility infrastructure. These winds, combined with saturated ground from heavy rain, easily topple trees, resulting in prolonged power outages. Tropical cyclones can also spawn tornadoes in their outer rain bands, which can inflict localized, severe damage with little warning.
Key Historical Storms that Impacted Connecticut
Connecticut’s history is marked by several powerful storms that illustrate the state’s vulnerability. The Great New England Hurricane of 1938 remains the benchmark for severity, making landfall as a Category 3 storm with no advance warning. It brought a devastating storm surge of 10 to 12 feet, which, combined with high tide, caused widespread destruction and claimed an estimated 125 lives in Connecticut.
More recently, Hurricane Irene (2011) hit the state as a tropical storm but caused extensive damage primarily through inland flooding and widespread power outages. Irene’s slow movement saturated the ground, leading to major river flooding and the toppling of countless trees onto power lines. Just one year later, Superstorm Sandy (2012) inflicted over $1 billion in damage to Connecticut’s shoreline, even though it did not make direct landfall as a hurricane. Sandy’s massive size and powerful storm surge devastated coastal communities, particularly along the western part of the state. These events demonstrate that Connecticut does not require a high-category, direct hurricane hit to suffer catastrophic consequences.
Essential Preparation and Safety Measures
Preparing for a tropical storm requires residents to take steps well before a storm threatens the coastline. Developing a family emergency plan, including designated evacuation routes and meeting places, is necessary for all residents, especially those in flood-prone areas.
Assembling a Supply Kit
Assembling a comprehensive supply kit is fundamental, ensuring you have enough resources to be self-sufficient for a minimum of three days. This kit should contain:
- Non-perishable food.
- One gallon of water per person per day.
- A battery-powered or hand-crank radio.
- A first-aid kit.
- Any necessary prescription medications.
Property and Insurance Review
Securing property by trimming trees, clearing gutters, and securing loose outdoor items helps mitigate wind damage. Residents should also register for local emergency alerts and monitor National Weather Service forecasts. Reviewing homeowners and flood insurance policies is advisable, as standard home insurance typically does not cover flood damage. Taking these steps allows individuals to respond quickly and safely to official evacuation orders or severe weather warnings.