(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that he is activating Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at noon on Friday, January 23, 2026, and remaining in effect until noon on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, due to a blast of extremely cold air that will impact the state during this period.

This is expected to be an exceptionally frigid period that will deliver some of the coldest temperatures the state has experienced so far this season, particularly during the overnight hours when temperatures will get into the single digits and wind chills will dip below zero.

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.

“We’re about to experience some of the coldest weather Connecticut has had in quite a while, and it cannot be stressed enough that temperatures this low can be fatal if someone is outside for too long,” Governor Lamont said. “This protocol enables us to partner with municipalities and nonprofits to see that shelters and warming centers are available for anyone in need. I also urge everyone to bring their pets indoors during this period because these conditions can be extremely dangerous for them, as well.”

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.