Branford: Hurricane Sandy Evacuation Update

The Town of Branford has declared a state of emergency and our Emergency Operation Center is monitoring the arrival of Hurricane Sandy. All Police, Fire and Public Works crews are on duty.

Sandy’s storm force winds are expected to affect Branford around midnight tonight and are expected to become increasingly worse in the succeeding 36 hours. Storm surges are predicted to be worse than what we experienced in Hurricane Irene and have been compared to the 1938 Hurricane.

Mandatory evacuations are ordered for no later than 8:00 p.m. this evening for all coastal areas, areas along the Branford River, and anywhere where home owners experienced flooding during Hurricane Irene. It is imperative that mandatory evacuations be followed and those residents who choose to stay must be aware that public safety units may be unable to respond to your requests for service for up to 48 hours. Sheltering outside of the affected area with family and friends is highly recommended especially for those who are elderly.

Shelters have been opened at the Branford High School at 185 East Main Street and the Mary Murphy School at 14 Brushy Plain Road for those families that require sheltering with pets. 

Those requiring community shelters should review the town’s Evacuation and Sheltering Guide that is available (download above) online at www.branford-ct.gov, and following the Office of Emergency Management link on the left side of the page. The guide informs you of what items are necessary for sheltering you and your pets.

All public schools have been canceled for Monday and Tuesday.
All town wide garbage collection is suspended until further notice however the Town’s Transfer Station will be open tomorrow morning and following normal hours.