HARTFORD, March 2.--The great rainstorm which was in progress all day Saturday, Saturday night and yesterday morning caused the greatest damage to property throughout the state known in 20 years.

The storm in Winsted and other sections of Litchfield county was very severe, The Philadelphia, Reading and New England railroad tracks are under water in many places, and traffic has been suspended. The loss in Litchfield county alone is estimated at nearly $100,000.

Highland lake, near Winsted, one of the largest bodies of water in this section of the state, overflowed its banks. The streets of Winsted were flooded to the depth of from three to five feet, causing heavy damage to stores, business blocks and private residences.

Mad river also overflowed and added to the sea of water. The Hotel Central was in great danger. The underpinning weakened, and many of the guests became frightened and took up quarters elsewhere.

The Fitchburg Sentinel, Fitchburg, MA 2 Mar 1896
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Transcribed by Audrey. Thank you, Audrey!