(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is activating Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Monday, January 19, 2026, and remaining in effect until noon on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, due to a blast of arctic air that will impact the state during this period.
Temperatures are expected to dip 10 to 15 degrees below normal for this time of year, particularly on Tuesday, when the high temperatures during the day are forecast to range between 15 to 25 degrees and at night will be in the single digits. Additionally, the state is expected to see wind gusts between 25 to 35 miles per hour beginning on Monday night and continuing through Tuesday, which may bring wind chill values down into the negative single digits at times.
The purpose of the 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.
Anyone in need of shelter or a warming center is urged to visit 211ct.org or call 2-1-1 to find available locations. Transportation can be provided if necessary.
“This is turning out to be a particularly cold winter in Connecticut as temperatures are again expected to dip below normal for the next couple of days,” Governor Lamont said. “Enacting this protocol enables the state to partner with municipalities and nonprofits to see that shelters and warming centers are available statewide. I also want to remind everyone that it is extremely dangerous to leave pets outdoors during temperatures this cold, and they can suffer frostbite and hypothermia just like the rest of us, which is why it is important to protect your pets from this harsh weather.”
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.