Next Round of Storms Could Significantly Increase-Snow Load on Roofs, Increasing Risk of Collapse
Citing a special weather statement from the National Weather Service, the Connecticut Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS) today strongly urged residents and business owners to clear the buildup of ice and snow from buildings, especially from flat or low-pitch roofs and decks. Another round of winter weather is expected to hit the state early this week and could add significantly to the amount of snow on rooftops, increasing the risk of collapse.
The Weather Service warns that “a deep snowpack remains across a large portion of the tri-state area. A general 10 to 30 inches of snow depth remains on the ground, with the deepest snow values across Connecticut.” (See the full statement at http://www.crh.noaa.gov/product.php?site=NWS&issuedby=OKX&product=SPS&format=CI&version=1&glossary=1&highlight=on.)
“The heavier-than-expected snow Connecticut received in last week’s storm led to a number of roof and barn collapses,” DEMHS Commissioner Peter J. Boynton said. “Although sadly several animals were lost, fortunately none of the incidents so far have caused any human injuries. The risks to life and property are serious, however. And when the snow is allowed to accumulate, the danger grows with every storm.
“Governor Malloy yesterday urged people to clear their roofs and decks — and today the National Weather Service added its voice to the call for action,” the Commissioner said. “Snow may seem light and fluffy when you are looking at it from inside. But anyone who has shoveled a driveway knows it has real weight, and that weight increases tremendously when rain, freezing rain or sleet is added to the mix. We strongly encourage everyone to be mindful of the stress on roofs and decks and — if in doubt — have the situation checked by as professional as quickly as possible.”