Although many areas in the state have experienced complete devastation, other sections were relatively untouched. A walk from Frog Hollow to the Connecticut River involved no fallen power lines, a few down trees, and many branches strewn about.

All businesses appeared to be open.

Roads were clogged — particularly around gas stations — with impatient and careless drivers. Late last night, the lines at the pumps were only two or three cars deep. East of the Connecticut River, only a few gas stations were open because of the power outage.

Damage could be seen on the State Capitol grounds, in parks, and in residential areas alike.

The scion of the Charter Oak in Bushnell Park lost a few small branches, but is still standing. Most other trees in the park experienced more extensive damage.

Below: truck stuck and abandoned in Bushnell Park.

In all of this, what should not be lost is the beauty of our foliage, no matter how damaged and damaging. Trees shield us from the sun. They help filter toxins from the environment. And sometimes, if we place our constructions in the wrong places, nature can create inconveniences. Even when we lose the ability to shower daily or prepare hot meals, we are still faring far better than most people on this planet.

A press release from the City of Hartford states: “Hartford Mayor Pedro E. Segarra has determined that due to extreme public safety risks, residents and their families should not go house to house for Halloween Trick or Treating. ‘Due to the extensive nature of poor lighting and downed trees and power lines, we must put safety first and work to restore a sense of normalcy as quickly as possible,’ said Mayor Segarra.”

Not all areas are suffering from poor lighting, downed trees, and power lines, however. There are pockets of people who, because of our lack of tree canopy, have emerged relatively unscathed. As evidenced through the buzzing on social media sites, many are opening their homes and businesses to those lacking electricity. The stereotype of the socially cold Northerner unravels as family, friends, acquaintances, and even strangers are being invited in for a hot shower and meal.

The City of Hartford also wishes to inform residents that “the Department of Public Works Transfer Station, located at 280 Leibert Road in the North Meadows, will extend its hours.  It will be open from 7:00 a.m. until dusk through Saturday.  Please be advised that drop-offs at the site will be limited to storm debris only— branches, leaves, etc.”

Before tossing debris, you may want to check to see if neighbors can use it for crafts or firewood.

According to the City, as of late this morning, over sixty roads in Hartford were closed to thru-traffic.

Below: Park Terrace closed to traffic

The Hartford Public Schools were closed on Monday and will be closed again on Tuesday. There is still no ban on street parking in the city.

To see more photos taken after Saturday’s storm, see my Photobucket album.