In its path through Branford on Aug. 4, Tropical Storm Isaias wrought extensive damage that plunged much of Branford into power outages which lasted several days for many.

Branford’s emergency telecommunications center handled approximately 227 calls for service during the storm while also tracking storm damage information from additional calls and reports, and dispatching Branford police, fire, and medical responders to areas of need.

Following the storm, the notable absence of Eversource utility crews in the field became a hot button issue as well as one of frustration. Branford First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove, State Senator Christine Cohen (D-12), and state representatives Robin Comey (D-102) and Sean Scanlon (D-98) continued efforts to get answers from the energy supplier and bring in more crews to town.

In a community message issued from Cosgrove’s office at 11 a.m. on Aug. 6, it was noted, “currently, there are approximately 50 percent of Branford customers without power. Eversource crews are slowly responding to power outages. Branford’s Public Works Department has been continually working on tree removal that does not involve wires. Unfortunately, any trees involving wires require specialized power crews from Eversource. We understand residents’ frustration with the continued delay in restoration, please be assured that we are continuing to put pressure on Eversource regarding restoration efforts.”

In her Aug. 5 letter to Eversource Energy Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer James J. Judge, Cohen asked how the multi-billion dollar company was not prepared for the storm or ready to provide adequate service for power restoration following the event. Cohen noted the storm left nearly 31,000 customers without power in five of the six towns she represents (Branford, Durham, Guilford, Killingworth, and Madison) and about four dozen customers in North Branford (which is largely served by United Illuminating, with Northford largely served by Wallingford Electric).

“Additionally, I was surprised to hear from the local fire chiefs, police, and other town officials that Eversource refused to service towns during the night with line crews,” wrote Cohen.

Meanwhile, beginning on Aug. 5, Branford police worked to heighten awareness about safety practices as reports came in of drivers and others ignoring and/or removing police tape in order to pass roads with dangerous conditions including fallen or damaged trees and downed wires.

To assist residents, the town opened the Joe Trapasso Community House as a cooling center from Aug. 5 through 9. Additionally, outdoor charging stations were available at Branford Fire Headquarters, Indian Neck Fire Station, Stony Creek Fire House, Short Beach Fire House, and Town Hall.

By Aug. 8, approximately 20 percent of Eversource customers in some of Branford’s outlying areas, such as Stony Creek, were still without power.

As of press time on Aug. 10, Eversource estimated Branford customers who remained without power could expect to have it restored by 6 a.m. on Aug. 11.