Governor Lamont Activates Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol Beginning This Afternoon

(HARTFORD, CT) - Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a blast of arctic temperatures averaging 10 to 20 degrees below normal over the next several days, he is directing the state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol to be activated effective at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 4, 2025, and remaining in effect through 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025. This is the first time this season that the protocol has been activated.

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.

"It is going to be exceptionally cold for this early in the season, with lows over the next few days dropping to the single digits and wind chills close to zero at times," Governor Lamont said. "This kind of arctic air can be dangerous, and spending long periods of time outdoors in these conditions is not only harmful, but it can also be fatal. Shelters and warming centers are available throughout the state, and transportation can be provided if needed. I also want to remind everyone that leaving pets outdoors in these conditions can be just as dangerous as it is for humans, and everyone should take steps to protect their pets from these harsh conditions."

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.