Clearing All Roofs!

Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security warn that the "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 DEMHS strongly urge 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 Connecticut 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 snow-pack 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." (Read the full statement here.)

"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. And when the snow is allowed to accumulate, the danger grows with every storm."

In North Branford, the record snowfall this winter has caused property damage for one business owner and a resident. Amato’s Restaurant fell victim to the weighty white stuff Friday afternoon when the roof of the two-year-old eatery caved in. Earlier that day, a Wildwood Road resident’s garage roof collapsed, crushing the two cars below. Fortunately no one was injured in both incidents, but damages could prove costly.

Over the weekend, Governor Dannel P. Malloy urged people to clear their roofs and decks – and 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."

If you are trying to clear a roof, it's advised that you stay off a structure and use a roof rake or an extended-arm tool to clear. Learn more about roof rakes .