Governor Lamont activated Connecticut’s extreme weather protocol as of Wednesday morning

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07/24/2023

Governor Lamont activated Connecticut’s extreme weather protocol as of Wednesday morning

Cooling centers can be found by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211ct.org.

(Hartford, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont has announced that Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol will go into effect on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 at 8:00 a.m. and will remain in effect through Sunday, July 26, 23 and 30, following a forecast that indicates temperatures will be very hot and humid over the next few days.

The current forecast indicates that the heat index for this period will range from 95 to 105 degrees with prolonged impacts during the overnight hours, especially in urban areas of Connecticut.

The purpose of this protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations are protected from heat. When implemented, a system will be set up for state agencies, municipalities and other stakeholders to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1, ensuring information about cooling centers is available statewide and providing a place to get some relief.

Governor Lamont is advising Connecticut residents, especially the most vulnerable, to take precautions during the high temperatures. Opening of cold storage centers across the state. Anyone who needs a place to escape the heat can find a cooling center near them by calling 2-1-1 or viewing the list online. 211ct.org.

“We’ve had a pretty warm summer so far, but this week is expected to be particularly hot, including in the evening,” Governor Lamont said. “Cooling centers are open throughout Connecticut and can be found by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211ct.org.”

Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol implements the following actions:

• The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses 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 various situations and conditions.
• Municipalities and other partners submit information about cooling center openings to WebEOC, providing a real-time database of the availability of these locations across the state. United Way 2-1-1 uses the system to act as a clearinghouse to help residents find a cooling center.
• WebEOC is monitored by local coordinators from the Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security to respond to any requests from municipalities for state assistance.
• Energy utility companies provide the state with regular updates on the impact of climate change on their respective utilities during the term of the protocol.

Although anyone can get heat-related illness, some people are more at risk than others:

• Infants and young children are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to manage their environment and provide adequate fluids.
• People aged 65 or older cannot compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to a change in temperature.
• People who are overweight can develop heatstroke due to their tendency to retain more body heat.
• People who overexert themselves at work or exercise can become dehydrated and prone to heatstroke.
• People with physical ailments, especially those with heart disease or high blood pressure, or those taking certain medications for depression, insomnia, and circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.

Some prevention tips to stay safe in extreme heat include:

• Cool your body temperature to avoid heat related illnesses.
• Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours. Try to take frequent breaks in shady areas so your body has a chance to cool down.
• Find an air-conditioned shelter. (Call 2-1-1 for a list of cooling centers.) Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
• Avoid direct sunlight.
• Wear light and light colored clothes.
• Take a cold bath or shower.
• Check on those most at risk several times a day.
• Pets that cannot be brought indoors should be provided with shade and water.
• Never leave pets inside parked vehicles as temperatures can rise to life-threatening levels within minutes.

Everyone is reminded to stay hydrated during periods of extreme heat. Dehydration is common when experiencing very high temperatures, as the body loses fluids through sweat. It strongly encourages:

• Drink more water than usual.
• Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more fluids.
• Drink two to four cups of water every hour when working outside or exercising.
• Avoid alcohol or liquids with high sugar content.
• Remind others to drink enough water.

Twitter: @GovNedLamont

Facebook: Office of Governor Ned Lamont