CL&P is warning that Hurricane Irene could cause power outages lasting a week or longer in some areas. Jeff Butler, president and chief operating officer of Connecticut Light & Power, is warning customers to be prepared for loss of electricity.
The utility, which serves 1.2 million customers, is cancelling vacations, putting all its personnel on standby and coordinating with sister companies in Massachusetts and New Hampshire to have crews available to restore power.
The storm is projected to approach the state on Sunday. While the track and intensity of the storm remain uncertain, state officials said it could drop 6-10 inches of rain with more than a foot in isolated areas.
Some people have been preparing by buying generators.
The Home Depot in West Hartford sold 80 percent of their generators on Wednesday and the store in Manchester had run out as of Thursday morning.
Be warned that portable generators can produce high levels of carbon monoxide within minutes in confined spaces. Never use them inside a home or garage, even if doors and windows are open
