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Connecticut · Risk Readiness
Before the emergency — maps, tools, and the honest picture of what Connecticut throws at different parts of the state.
See CT hazardsCT hazard profile
Connecticut's most frequent and damaging hazard. The February 2013 'Nemo' blizzard dropped 40 inches in some areas — the largest snowfall in state history. The October 2011 Alfred nor'easter knocked out power to 830,000 customers for up to 10 days. Major nor'easters hit CT several times per winter, and the late-season wet snow events are particularly destructive to trees and power lines. Connecticut's Long Island Sound coastline faces storm surge from both hurricanes and nor'easters. Sandy (2012) caused significant coastal damage and flooding across the shoreline towns. Irene (2011) caused $900M in damage from flooding across the state. The Connecticut River valley from Hartford to the Sound floods with every major tropical system that tracks up the coast. The Connecticut, Housatonic, and Thames rivers all flood regularly. Hartford has flooded catastrophically multiple times — the 1936 flood killed 19 people. Inland flash flooding in the hilly western and eastern uplands can be sudden and severe. Basement flooding from combined sewer overflow affects urban communities statewide during heavy rain events.
Ice accumulation causes prolonged power outages and road closures across the state.
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Direct landfalls and tropical moisture bring catastrophic wind, surge, and inland flooding.
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Flash floods, river flooding, and coastal surge affect low-lying areas and river corridors.
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Occur across most of the state, often embedded in severe thunderstorm lines and tropical systems.
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Extreme heat events endanger vulnerable residents and stress power infrastructure.
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Official tools
Enter your address to see your flood zone designation and insurance requirements.
Source: FEMA
Real-time earthquake activity and seismic hazard maps for your region.
Source: USGS
Your property's wildfire exposure score based on vegetation, terrain, and proximity to wildland.
Source: USFS
Real-time river levels and flood stage by county.
Source: USGS WaterWatch
Weekly drought conditions by county.
Source: US Drought Monitor
Water quality guidance for households on private wells.
Source: EPA
Insurance gaps
Standard homeowner's policies in Connecticut exclude flood damage. Flood insurance through the NFIP has a 30-day waiting period — it cannot be purchased when a storm is forecast. Check your declarations page annually to confirm your coverage limits and deductibles.
Not in your standard policy
Flood damage — requires NFIP or private flood policy
Earthquake damage — requires separate endorsement
Sewer & drain backup — requires endorsement ($50–$100/yr)
Landslide / mudflow — generally excluded
Next steps
During an emergency
NC emergency contacts, alert signups, and real-time information.
Local EmergencyGet prepared
Step-by-step actions based on the hazards that apply to Connecticut.
CT Checklists