HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) - President Donald Trump has approved an emergencydeclaration for Connecticut that will allow the state to request federal aid fordamage caused by Tropical Storm Isaias, Gov. Ned Lamont said Friday. The Democratic governor said he spoke with the president by phone Thursdaynight and urged him to expedite the process. The Federal Emergency ManagementAgency told state officials on Friday morning that the declaration was approved. Tuesday's storm cut power to more than 700,000 homes and businesses inConnecticut, killed two people and seriously injured five others. Scores oftrees and utility wires were knocked down. About 466,000 customers of Eversource and United Illuminating remained withoutpower Friday morning, down from 580,000 on Thursday afternoon. Eversource saidpower will be restored to most of its customers by Tuesday night, while UnitedIlluminating said power restoration should be substantially completed by Monday. Many state residents are criticizing the utilities' preparation and response tothe storm, which are under investigation by state regulators. Lamont said state officials continue to assess the damage from the storm to seewhether Connecticut meets the thresholds to seek a major disaster declarationfrom the federal government that would allow the state and its municipalities toreceive more federal aid.
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