Lamont Declares State Of Emergency After Tropical Storm Isaias

CONNECTICUT — Gov. Ned Lamont proclaimed a civil preparedness emergency, also known as a state of emergency, after Tropical Storm Isaias left a path of destruction through the state Tuesday. More than 700,000 electric customers remained without power as of Wednesday afternoon.

"With more than 700,000 customers experiencing power outages, we need to take several emergency steps that will facilitate restoration,” Lamont said. “I remain in consistent communication with municipal leaders and utility officials so that we can move resources to where they are most needed at this time. I continue to have regular communications with our Emergency Operations Center, which is managing both the response to this storm and our continued response to COVID-19.”

The state of emergency will allow the state to get help from the National Guard and Federal Emergency Management Administration, according to the Hartford Courant.

This is Lamont's second civil preparedness emergency during his tenure. He signed one in March due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Civil preparedness emergencies are commonly signed after major natural or manmade disasters. The last one signed before the pandemic was in May 2018 due to tornado and wind damage.

The emergency declaration gives Lamont the power to enact travel bans, government facility closures and other expedited processes.

See also: These 97 CT Routes/Highways Are Still Closed Due To Tropical Storm Isaias: Here's The Full Updated List

• CT Power Outages Town-By-Town: 700,000 Without Power
• Storm Damage Reports: Numerous Homes Damaged Or Destroyed In CT
• Man Killed After Tree Falls On Him During Storm, Victim ID Released: PD