(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont is urging Connecticut residents to be prepared as the first significant winter storm of the season is forecast to impact the state Saturday night through Sunday. In addition, he announced that he plans to activate the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at noon on Sunday, January 20, and lasting through noon on Wednesday, January 23, as bitter cold temperatures are anticipated to spread throughout the state just as the storm begins to move out.
Shelters are open throughout Connecticut and can be located by calling 2-1-1 or visiting www.211ct.org.
“Once this storm begins, travel is going to be rough,” Governor Lamont said. “We are urging everyone in Connecticut to make plans to stay in place Saturday night and into Sunday morning, and only travel if absolutely necessary. I am also activating the Severe Cold Weather Protocol on Sunday to help the most vulnerable in our communities access shelters during this stretch of brutal cold temperatures. If you or someone you know is in need of shelter, please call 2-1-1.”
Officials from the Connecticut Department of Transportation are also stressing the importance of staying clear of snowplows while driving. Attempting to pass a plow when it is in operation presents the possibility of a dangerous situation. Motorists are advised that they must clear all snow and ice from their vehicles – including the roof – before attempting to drive.
Severe Cold Weather Protocol
While activated, the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol directs staff from the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP), the Department of Social Services (DSS), the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS), and the Department of Housing (DOH) to coordinate with 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to ensure that the state’s most vulnerable populations receive shelter and are protected from the severe cold weather.
This includes the following actions:
- DESPP’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security activates its WebEOC communications network, 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.
- DSS, DOH, and DMHAS coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.