Clinton, Conn. – A powerful nor’easter that swept New England over the weekend pushed tides higher than usual from Old Saybrook to Milford, flooding low‑lying streets and the harbor area in Clinton. The surge forced a handful of restaurants and other waterfront businesses to shut their doors temporarily, but coordinated efforts by the town’s public works crew, first responders, and business owners helped restore normal operations by Monday.
Harbor office nearly under water
Harbormaster Rob Derry warned that the rising tide threatened to inundate the entire harbor district. “When the high tide comes in, it does flood the whole area,” Derry said, noting that the water rose so high it almost reached his office. The surge also brushed the low‑lying homes on Cedar Island, though Derry confirmed that no residents were present on the island at the time.
Public‑works response
Clinton’s public works department, together with local fire and police units, moved quickly to clear downed trees, address power outages, and reopen blocked roadways. Crews worked through the night and into the early morning hours to pump water from critical access points and to ensure that emergency routes remained passable.
Businesses brace for the storm
One of the most visible impacts was on Lobster Landing, a popular harbor‑side eatery co‑owned by Angela Morander. The restaurant, which sits at the mouth of the harbor, has a history of dealing with high‑tide flooding. “Definitely scared,” Morander said. “We’ve been flooded here before, so we knew what to do and how to prepare.”
Employees lifted refrigerators and other essential equipment onto higher ground, protecting inventory from water damage. However, the flooded access roads forced the restaurant and several neighboring businesses to close for the weekend. After the water receded, Lobster Landing reopened on Monday, operating from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Community resilience
The swift response highlighted Clinton’s commitment to protecting its waterfront economy and preserving the town’s historic charm. Residents expressed gratitude for the rapid cleanup, and local officials praised the cooperation between municipal departments and private owners.
While the nor’easter caused temporary disruption, the incident underscores the importance of preparedness in coastal communities. Town leaders say they will continue to evaluate flood‑mitigation strategies to safeguard both public infrastructure and the businesses that draw visitors to Clinton’s scenic harbor.
Original reporting: NBC Connecticut (Hartford) — read the source article.
