Fairfield, Nowalk -- severe flooding

FAIRFIELD, Conn. (WTNH) -- Fairfield and Norwalk have already had substantial flooding and it is only expected to get worse.

Wind gusts were estimated at just over 40 mph around 2:30 p.m. at Jennings Beach in Fairfield. The wind gusts and surges are greater than they were for Irene.

The Shelter at Roger Ludlow High school has more room available and pets are allowed.

During high tide, News 8 couldn't access the beach and the water could be 17' higher than it normally is for the high tide tonight.

Rowayton, a section of Norwalk, had flooded streets during high tide. Many residents didn't hear the warnings to leave and had to be rescued.

News 8 attended the Press Conference in Norwalk -- People need to evacuate by dark. The mayor said officials will not be able to access people later tonight so they need to evacuate before it gets too bad.

There are 3,300 in the flood prone area in Norwalk. Officials don't know how many people are still in their homes, so they are urging people to get out while they can.

There is a shelter at Brien McMahon HS on Highland Ave and pets are also allowed.