HARTFORD— Governor Ned Lamont announced that the state’s severe cold weather protocol will go into effect at 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, and remain in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024. This is the first activation of the protocol this season, as Connecticut prepares for a period of extreme cold.
The protocol is designed to protect vulnerable populations from life-threatening cold conditions, which are expected to bring temperatures down to single digits at night, along with wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour. The cold weather could create hazardous conditions for those without shelter, making it essential for state and local agencies to coordinate their efforts to ensure everyone has access to a safe, warm place.
“Beginning this weekend and continuing through the first couple days of next week, Connecticut will experience the first blast of arctic air of the season with temperatures dropping into the single digits at night and wind gusts up to 30 miles per hour at times,” Governor Lamont said. “Being outdoors for extended periods in these extreme conditions is not only dangerous but it can be fatal.”
“Shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut,” he continued. “Anyone in need of a safe place to stay warm is urged to call 2-1-1 to be directed to a nearby location, or check the list of locations online at 211ct.org. Transportation to a shelter or warming center can also be provided to anyone in need. Leaving pets outdoors in these frigid conditions can also be dangerous, and it is strongly advised to bring your pets indoors.”
The cold weather protocol is a joint effort between state agencies, local municipalities, and nonprofit organizations. Under the protocol, the state’s network of shelters will be closely monitored, and resources will be mobilized to ensure that no one is left exposed to the extreme cold. The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP) will use the WebEOC communications system to monitor shelter capacity in real time, allowing 2-1-1 and local authorities to coordinate the opening of additional temporary shelters or warming centers if necessary.
“Shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut, and transportation will be provided to anyone in need,” said Governor Lamont. “It’s important to take action before the cold sets in. If you or someone you know needs a place to stay warm, please don’t wait to call.”
The following actions are in place during the cold weather protocol:
- 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 center
- 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.
Residents are encouraged to check the 2-1-1 website at 211ct.org for a list of available shelter locations or call 2-1-1 directly for assistance. The cold weather protocol also includes a reminder to protect pets from the cold.
The cold weather protocol will remain in effect through Tuesday, December 24, 2024, but may be extended if necessary, depending on weather conditions.
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