Thousands of Southbury residents were without power Thursday after a confirmed tornado touched down there during Tuesday's storm.

The National Weather Service said the tornado had wind speeds up to 100 mph at its peak -- powerful enough to knock over massive trees and street signs.

"We were under a state of emergency," said First Selectman Jeff Manville. "There's no question."

Streetlights were still black and shops were in the dark two days later, but Manville said the community is recovering well. Police officers were directing traffic at intersections that still lacked power.

Only a few businesses had reopened by Thursday. They included the town's ShopRite and Stop & Shop supermarkets.

He said Eversource Energy had about 15 crews throughout town. Eversource officials said it could be days before power is completely restored throughout the state.