CL&P Emergency Preparedness and Response Briefing
Tuesday, December 31, 2013, 12 noon
CL&P Preparing for Snow and Extreme Cold Thursday into Friday
Operational Status: Monitor
OVERVIEW AND SYSTEM STATUS
· A storm is expected to move into Connecticut Wednesday, January 1, starting as light snow and increasing in intensity on Thursday. The heaviest snow will fall from late day Thursday through Friday morning. Snow amounts are expected to be 6-10” across most of the state, with 10-12” possible in the northwest hills. Wind speeds are expected to be 10-20 mph, gusting to 30-35 mph, with peak gusts of 40 mph possible on Thursday night. Temperatures will be bitterly cold Thursday night into Saturday, with the possibility of single digits through Friday, and negative single digits away from the coastal areas.
· Based on current forecast predictions, we are anticipating minimal impact on the electric distribution system; however, we will continue to monitor the weather and communicate any significant changes, if necessary.
· CL&P prepares for severe weather every day and is poised to respond to any potential impacts from this storm.
PLANNING
· CL&P personnel are ready to respond, as needed. Approximately 140 internal crews (more than 280 individuals) are available for storm duty.
· Safety alerts will be distributed to CL&P employees today reminding them to be mindful of slips, trips and falls, along with driving safely:
o Walking/Work Surfaces: Use anti-slip footwear and be careful on slick surfaces.
o Work Sites: Use hazard identification and control procedures.
o Safe Driving: Clear your vehicle of snow, and slow down.
o Cold Temperatures: Be alert for wind chill warnings, and dress appropriately for extremely cold weather Thursday night into Saturday morning.
· CL&P will be conducting Emergency Preparedness conference calls at least daily throughout the storm.
LOGISTICS
· Materials Control: CL&P is verifying stock of winter storm-related materials, such as salt and traction devices.
OPERATIONS
· MONITOR MODE: Conditions exists that present a potential risk, but pose no immediate threat, to CL&P operations or service to customers.
PUBLIC INFORMATION
· This briefing is being issued to all communities today, including the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, towns, and regulators.
· To report an outage, call 800-286-2000 or visit www.cl-p.com.
· Customer reminders, in the event of outages, include: safety around downed wires and proper generator use. For safety tips, go to www.cl-p.com.
· For restoration updates:
– Visit the Storm Center at www.cl-p.com
– Follow us on Twitter @CTLightandPower
– Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/ctlightandpower
