Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol to be activated beginning at noon on Monday, March 1, and remaining in effect through noon on Tuesday, March 2, 2021, as brutally frigid temperatures are expected to impact the state overnight and into the morning.
Forecasts are currently showing the state will experience a severe drop in temperature accompanied by strong winds that will bring the wind chill near or below zero across Connecticut on Monday evening. A wind advisory has been issued for the entire state, with gusts of 40 to 50 miles per hour anticipated at times.
The protocol sets up a system for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe conditions. United Way 2-1-1 operates as the point of contact for individuals who need shelter and transportation to shelters.
Anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 2-1-1 to get connected to these services. Safety measures have been enacted at shelters throughout the state to adhere to the needs of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
While activated, the protocol enacts the following actions:
- The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security activates 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 Department of Social Services, Department of Housing, and 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 CT Prepares website at ct.gov/ctprepares or download the CTPrepares app to mobile devices at the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.
For additional information and resources on preparing for a Winter Storm/Blizzard or Severe Cold Weather or for safety tips regarding detecting Carbon Monoxide (CO) in the home, see the following
2-1-1 eLibrary papers:
Dept. of Emergency Services & Public Protection- 860-256-0800
Department of Transportation- 860-594-2000
Connecticut 211- 1-800-203-1234
GET NOTIFIED: Sign up with www.CTAlert.govto receive any emergency information sent out in your town.
CT CHAPTER OF THE RED CROSS Cold Weather Safety Tips from the American Red Cross CLICK HERE
CANCELLATIONS? DELAYS:CLICK here to get to our Big Y Storm Center Powered by WTNH
YOU CAN HELP:With the temperatures getting so cold, you may know someone who needs a little help keeping warm. This link will provide you with locations across the state. AS always you can call 2 1 1 toll free from anywhere too.CLICK HERE FOR THE INFORMATION
FLIGHT INFO: FLIGHT CANCELLATIONS - link will be periodically updated.
Train Stations/schedules -
POWER OUTAGES & UPDATES: EVERSOURCE
Customers can report power outages by calling 1-800-286-2000
The United Illuminating Company UI:CLICK HERE for an Outage Map
To report a power outage, downed power lines or damaged electrical equipment, call UI at 1-800-7-CALL-UI (1-800-722-5584).