‘Excruciating’ Humming Noise Remains a Years-Long Mystery and ‘Serious Public Health Issue’ for This City

Residents in the coastal Connecticut city of West Haven say they’ve been living with an irritating, low-frequency humming noise for years — and they want city leaders to identify what’s causing it.

The vibration has been reported by locals since 2020. Some describe it as impossible to ignore, while others say they can’t hear it at all.

John Carrano, West Haven’s human resources commissioner, told local news outlet NBC Connecticut (NBC CT) that the sound has been “excruciating” for some residents, while his daughter “doesn’t hear it at all.”

Resident Warren Thomas described the noise to the outlet as “a persistent, constant low hum, enough for you to hear it, enough for you to notice it.”

A petition urging officials to investigate says the hum can strike at any time, interfering with sleep and daily life.

“This disturbing phenomenon occurs at all hours, disrupting our ability to sleep, concentrate and enjoy life to its fullest. Many residents have reported increased levels of stress, anxiety and physical discomfort due to this incessant noise and vibration,” the petition states.

To respond to the growing complaints, the West Haven City Council recently approved a budget of $16,000 to hire a sound engineering company, NBC CT reported, with the goal of tracking down the source.

City officials and the engineers plan to use 10 microphones to monitor the area and, they hope, pinpoint where the hum is coming from.

Carrano, who has tried to locate the origin himself, told NBC CT that the problem has been “difficult to pinpoint” because of its “low frequency.”

West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer described the ongoing mystery as a “quality-of-life issue,” saying the city doesn’t want it to affect residents’ health.

In the petition, residents also raise concerns about potential long-term impacts.

“We are deeply concerned about the long-term health consequences this persistent noise pollution imposes on us,” the petition reads. “Scientific studies have shown that noise pollution can severely impact sleep quality, cognitive functioning, mood stability and overall well-being. … It’s a serious public health issue that requires immediate attention.”