Flood watch in effect in CT. High winds also expected

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for parts of northern Connecticut on Sunday afternoon.

The flood watch will remain in effect from 4 p.m. Sunday to 7 p.m. Monday for Hartford, Tolland and Windham counties and parts of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, the NWS said.

The weather service warned that 2 to 4 inches of rain may cause excessive runoff that floods some creeks, streams and other low-lying locations. Poor drainage from clogged storm drains may also cause flooding in urban areas, the NWS said in the watch statement.

The City of Hartford issued its own warning that there is a possibility of flood on Sunday as weather forecasts predict heavy rain and gusty winds through the city Sunday evening through Monday morning, according to city officials.

The heaviest rain is expected to fall overnight into Monday morning.

“Heavy rains can be difficult to predict and may arrive with little warning,” city officials said in a statement.

The city reminded residents to keep loose leaves off the curb and out of the street to prevent clogged catch basins that will lead to street flooding.

In the event of flooding, the city sent out a list of safety tips:

— Put furniture and valuables in a safe place, moving them out of basements or other areas that may flood.

— Move cars away from trees that could drop branches and bring patio furniture inside.

— Keep phones and electronic devices charged.

— Make sure flashlights are charged or have batteries.

— Stock up on some non-perishable food in case the power goes out.

— Fill containers with drinking water and fill the bathtub with water to flush toilets.

— Assume that all downed wires are live and do not touch or drive over them. Call 911.

— Avoid driving down flooded roads.

Hartford’s sewer authority, The Metropolitan District Commission, can be reached 24/7 by calling 860-278-7850 and pressing 1 or Ext. 3600.

During heavy rainfall events, the city’s Department of Public Works will be working to clear storm drains. Clogged drains near your home or business can be reported to 860-757-9311 or 11callcenter@hartford.gov.

Power outages can be reported to Eversouce through eversource.com or by calling 1-800-286-2000.