Connecticut's Severe Cold Weather Protocol Activated Friday Through Monday

Governor Malloy Activates Connecticut's Severe Cold Weather Protocol Activated Friday Through Monday

Governor Dannel P. Malloy today announced that in anticipation of temperatures over the next couple of days that are forecast to be bitter cold with negative wind chill factors at times, he is activating the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 10, 2017, and remaining in effect through 8:00 a.m. on Monday, March 13.

“Temperatures have been fluctuating a lot lately, which is especially why we want to get word out to the most vulnerable that it will be brutally cold this weekend and anyone in need should seek shelter,” Governor Malloy said.  “Following the snowfall that we’re expecting to receive on Friday morning, temperatures will begin to drop for the next couple of days.  If anyone is in need of shelter, call 2-1-1 to find the nearest available location.”

While activated, the protocol directs staff from the state’s 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 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 and DOH coordinate with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.

A list of shelters and warming centers that are open across Connecticut can be located by calling 2-1-1 or visiting www.211ct.org.