Fairfield Residents, Businesses Urged To Report Damage From Weekend's Rainstorm

FAIRFIELD, CT — Fairfield residents and businesses affected by Sunday's flooding are being asked to report the damage through the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security’s CrisisTrack Damage Self Report.

In a message Monday to constituents, First Selectperson Christine Vitale said the town endured more than six inches of rain in six hours, which led to widespread flooding.

The Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security’s survey is collecting information on the effects of the rainstorm.

"This survey is being used to document the extent of storm damage throughout Connecticut and help determine eligibility for potential post-disaster assistance programs," Vitale wrote. "Completing the survey is not the same as filing a claim and does not guarantee that assistance will be available. Please report your property damage to your insurance company."

The storm hit hard and fast on Sunday, prompting some residents to question why the town did not send out its own warnings.

Police and emergency personnel responded to more than 100 flood-related calls on Sunday, and dealt with more a dozen vehicles and motorists stranded by floodwaters. Additionally, Fairfield fire officials have also been called to more than 100 properties to assess damage, and possible carbon monoxide and gas leaks.

The National Weather Service had sent out warnings, which Vitale said had the most accurate information about the storm, but she conceded that town email alerts could have also been sent.

"After further review and community feedback, for future emergency messaging we will follow up with a Town of Fairfield alert," Vitale wrote. "Additionally, a Town email would have added another layer of communication, and that will be part of our protocol in future emergency situations as well."

On Thursday, the town's Flood Prevention, Climate Resilience and Erosion Control Board will host a public meeting to discuss the Town Master Flood Resilience Plan.

The meeting, which is open to the public, is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at the Regional Fire Training Center on Richard White Way.