(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a period of brutally frigid conditions over the coming days, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to go into effect beginning at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 19, 2025, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Friday, January 24, 2025.

During this period, temperatures are expected to remain below freezing throughout the daytime hours and overnight temperatures are anticipated to drop into the single digits and possibly below zero.

Anyone in need of shelter or warming center is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services, or they can visit 211ct.org to read a list of available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.

“Right now, meteorologists are telling us that this coming week may bring the coldest weather that Connecticut has experienced so far this season, so we want to get the word out that being outdoors in these frigid conditions for extended periods can be dangerous and even life threatening,” Governor Lamont. “Shelters and warming centers are available across Connecticut, and transportation can be arranged if needed. We also want to remind everyone that leaving pets outdoors in these conditions can cause frostbite and hypothermia just like in humans, which is why everyone should protect their pets from this harsh weather.”

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.