This was not a typical Labor Day weekend on the shore.
There have been parties. But people are also preparing in case the area is hit by Hermine.
The biggest impacts from Hermine are expected here from late Sunday night into Monday.
There’s the possibility of a storm surge of up to two feet.
“We have all of our furniture up against the houses and just hope and pray nothing major happens,” says Tina Capozzi of Milford.
The mayor of Milford is asking people to prepare for the worst and hope for the best.
“We’re asking all residents who live along the shore in those low lying areas to take precautions, whatever precautions are necessary to secure all objects, to move your vehicles to higher ground,” says Mayor Ben Blake, Milford.
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There’s concern about minor flooding. But also damage from rain, wind, and beach erosion.
“Our public works crews are out right now. They’re clearing the beaches, everything from lifeguard stands to garbage cans. They’ve secured all our public assets. They’re making sure our storm drains and catch basins are cleared,” says Blake.
“I’m not really worried. Been around a long time,” says Al Posey of West Haven.
Posey has enjoyed a lot of stunning sunsets from his home in West Haven. But he’s also watched the destruction caused by storms. While he’s not too concerned about Hermine, he’s still preparing.
“I’ll flip the glass table on the deck over and rope down everything that can move and I pulled my little boat out,” says Posey.
Before the storm even hits, it could stir up the water of the Sound.
Undertow currents could make it potential dangerous for boaters and swimmers hoping to ride the big waves.
“A lot of times these people find themselves in peril and that’s when we get called out to save them and the conditions are at their worst. So they actually could be putting more lives in danger,” says Battalion Chief Robert Turner, Milford Fire Department.
Milford fire is also concerned about possible flooding with a storm surge of up to a couple feet.
They urge people to stay off flooded roads, which might have hazards including electrical and hidden holes.
“If you can’t see where you’re walking, we recommend that you don’t walk there,” says Turner.
For those hunkering down, they say the area has been rebuilt stronger after Irene and Sandy.
And the people are as tough as ever.
“When you’re on the shore, every single is Labor Day and you don’t have to worry about a thing,” says Al Posey of West Haven.
