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Winter Storm Elliott Advisory 12/22/22

Posted on: December 22, 2022 - 5:21pm
Map at time of posting

As we prepare for the impending Winter Storm Elliott, be informed. Please review the Town of Hanover’s latest storm advisories and updates at hanover-ma.gov/winterstormelliott. You may also visit our Winter Weather Preparedness resources to learn how to prepare and stay safe.

By now you are likely aware that the weather forecast for tomorrow is calling for heavy rain and significant wind arriving overnight and lasting through tomorrow, followed by decreasing temperatures over the weekend. Earlier today, the Town’s Emergency Management Team (HFD, HPD, DPW, HPS Superintendent, Town Manager) met to evaluate options for town services and school operations for tomorrow. At this time, we are proceeding without cancellations or delays, and all Town Offices and services will function as normal.

Based on the current forecast, there is no anticipated ice or snow until late on Friday evening. Hanover is always susceptible to power outages which can certainly impact school operations. Based on historical performance, taking into consideration that there are no leaves on trees and no snow or ice buildup, the likelihood of power outages is less than we have experienced with wind storms in the past during different times of the year. However, we are prepared to change course. If there are power outages that affect our schools overnight, or early in the AM, we will make an informed decision about closing schools if necessary and will notify families and staff using our normal communication channels. 

The Hanover Police Department would like to remind all drivers that if there is a power outage that affects traffic lights, the intersection is to be treated as a four-way stop. Please be sure to share this information with any younger motorists in your home. Hopefully, this won’t be a concern tomorrow.

If anyone needs assistance, has questions, or is concerned about the well-being of a fellow resident, please contact Hanover's Town Manager at 339-214-5303 (call/text) or send a message to joseph.colangelo@hanover-ma.gov. For all emergencies, call 911.

Power Outages and Concerns

If you lose power, please notify National Grid to ensure that your outage is reported or call 800-465-1212. To report a downed power line, stay away and call 911. Be prepared by having your flashlights, candles, generators, and backup power devices ready and fully charging your electronics. Prepare alternate plans for refrigerating medicines or power-dependent medical devices.

Downed Power Lines

Residents are advised to use extreme care around downed utility wires. Assume they are “live.”

  • Report downed utility lines by calling 911.
  • All downed wires should be considered live. This includes electric, telephone, and cable wires.
  • Emergency responders will be marking downed wires with YELLOW caution tape.  Remind children to stay away from all downed wires.
  • Again, all downed wires should be considered live and avoided.

Damaged House Service Tip

If you notice damage to the power meter system located on your property, you will need to have the damage repaired by a licensed electrician and then inspected by the Town of Hanover prior to being reconnected by National Grid. If your house service is damaged follow these three steps:

  1. Have a licensed electrician repair the damage.
  2. The electrician must pull a permit.
  3. Have the repair inspected. Town of Hanover Building Department may be reached at 781-826-5000, ext. 1009.

Food Safety Before, During, and After A Power Outage

Generators

  • Use Caution when operating generators.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Place the generator outdoors facing away from doors, windows, and vents. Never use a generator inside a house, basement, or crawl space; not even inside a garage with the door open. When possible, place the generator 5-10 feet away from the house.
  • Plug appliances directly into the generator or use heavy-duty, outdoor-rated extension cords, not to exceed the number of outlets on the generator. Make sure cords are free of cuts and tears and have all three prongs; especially the grounding pin.
  • Keep the generator dry. Operate on a dry surface under an open canopy or tent.
  • Dry your hands before touching the generator.
  • Let the generator cool before refueling. Fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite.

Chain Saws

  • Residents who own chainsaws should follow the manufacturer's recommended operating guidelines.
  • Do not attempt to cut down trees that are “hung up” on houses or on other trees.  How they fall is very unpredictable and may result in death, injury, or further damage.
  • Leave difficult chainsaw work to properly trained tree removal professionals.

Current Weather in Hanover, MA

Other Media

Stay tuned to our local television channels (4, 5, 7, 25) and radio (WBZ 1030 AM and WATD 95.9 FM) for other information and advisories.

Emergency Operations Center Resources