HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a period of particularly frigid conditions over the next several days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to go into effect beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, January 6, 2025, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 9, 2025.
High temperatures during this period are forecast to be in the mid to upper twenties, and overnight lows are expected to be in the single digits and teens. Winds are expected to be out of the northwest at 10 to 15 miles per hour with gusts potentially reaching 40 miles per hour.
Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services or visit 211ct.org to view a list of locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
“Over the next couple of days, cold temperatures combined with gusty winds will result in wind chill values remaining in the single digits and at times dropping below zero, particularly during the overnight hours,” Governor Lamont said. “Being outdoors for extended periods during these extreme conditions can be fatal, and we want to get the word out that shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut. Anyone in need of a place to stay warm is strongly urged to call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to locate available options.”
The purpose of the state’s severe cold weather protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.
The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:
- The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses its WebEOC communications network, which is an internet-based system that enables local, regional, and state emergency management officials and first responders to share up-to-date information about a variety of situations and conditions. The system is used to monitor capacity at shelters across the state, enabling 2-1-1 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 2-1-1 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.
- The Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.
For emergency management news and resources, visit the state’s CTPrepares website at ct.gov/ctprepares.
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