In issuing a "Katrina-like warning" during a 9:15 p.m. press briefing Monday, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy urged those who are surrounded by flood waters to get to the highest levels of their homes.

Malloy chastised coastline towns and residents who did not heed his recommendation to evacuate low-lying coastal areas and said the estimated "thousands" now stranded should not attempt to leave their homes. Rather, Malloy urged them to get to higher ground, even if that means the roof.

"Unless someone with the appropriate equipment is coming to get you out, get to the highest point and ride this thing out," Malloy said in a brief appearance at the state Emergency Operations Center in Hartford.

Malloy said that by 8 p.m., "it was evident our worst fears were being reached as a result of flooding conditions."

"If you are in a house that is inundated, get to a higher floor. Stay where you are at this time," he said.

Later tonight, Malloy ordered all nonessential state employees to stay home again Tuesday.

High tide at 9:53 p.m. in New London is expected to bring a storm surge that could further flood low-lying areas. Emergency personnel have warned people all day to avoid pooled water, which could be electrified by downed power lines.

In New London, Mayor Daryl Justin Finizio said Monday night that during a conference call with Malloy and the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, the state is predicting flood levels upwards of 2 feet higher than the Hurricane of 1938.

The mayor's office, which has received reports of people out on the streets examining damage, also urged residents to stay inside until noon Tuesday.