MADISON, CT — A large-scale gas leak on Overbrook Road prompted a shelter-in-place order Sunday morning as emergency crews raced to contain the leak and secure nearby infrastructure damaged by a fallen tree.
The incident began just before dawn when a tree collapsed along Overbrook Road, between Opening Hill Road and Colonial Road, taking down utility lines and fracturing a major natural gas main in the area. Officials say the falling tree caused simultaneous damage to both gas and electric lines, prompting immediate safety concerns for nearby residents.
At approximately 7:45 a.m., the Madison Fire Department issued an emergency shelter-in-place advisory for homes in the affected zone. By 8:15 a.m., Eversource had reported at least 24 power outages related to the incident, with additional outages likely due to precautionary shutdowns while crews worked to isolate the leak.
Residents in the area were instructed to stay indoors, seal all windows and doors, and turn off HVAC systems or any other equipment that could draw outside air indoors. These precautions, officials said, are vital to preventing potential ignition of the leaked gas or exposure to dangerous fumes.
“We’re taking every step necessary to ensure public safety,” said Madison Fire Chief Thomas Goehring. “This type of gas main damage requires a coordinated response with utility providers to safely shut off the supply and begin repairs without putting anyone at risk.”
Eversource gas and electric crews were on scene alongside Madison Fire personnel and the town’s emergency management team. Firefighters used gas detection equipment to monitor concentrations of natural gas in the air, and law enforcement blocked off traffic into the area to keep residents and drivers away from the hazard zone.
As of late morning, no injuries had been reported, and officials said the gas had not entered any nearby homes thanks to swift containment actions and favorable wind conditions. However, they cautioned that the situation remained dynamic.
“We’re asking for continued cooperation from the public,” Goehring added. “If you smell gas or feel unwell, evacuate and contact 911 immediately.”
The Madison Police Department and town officials provided updates via social media and the town’s website, encouraging residents to call the Madison Information Line at (203) 245-5600 for further guidance.
Utility companies indicated that repairs could take several hours depending on the extent of the underground damage. Power restoration efforts are being prioritized in coordination with emergency safety checks.
Local officials praised the rapid coordination between departments and noted that incidents like these highlight the importance of infrastructure maintenance and emergency readiness in coastal communities vulnerable to weather-related tree collapses.
As of 12:30 p.m., the shelter-in-place order remained in effect, with no estimated time of resolution released.
