This article has been updated February 14, 2020 to include local cold weather information.

HARTFORD— Governor Ned Lamont has announced that as temperatures are anticipated to dip into the single digits and teens on Friday night, February 14, he will be activating the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at noon on Friday, February 14, and lasting through noon on Saturday, February 15.

The protocol directs staff from the relevant state agencies to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe conditions. A listing of available shelters throughout Connecticut can be located by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211ct.org.

“We’ve been a bit lucky so far this season with relatively mild temperatures as compared to normal, but a blast of freezing cold air will be heading in our direction on Friday night,” Governor Lamont said. “Being outdoors in these extreme cold conditions for extended periods is not safe, and we must spread the word that shelters are available throughout Connecticut. If you or someone you know is in need of shelter, call 2-1-1 and they will direct you to a nearby location.”

While activated, the protocol includes the following actions:

*The Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’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.

*The Department of Social Services, Department of Housing, and 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 or download the app to mobile devices at the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

Locally, the office of the the First Selectman in Newtown has announced a cold weather alert:

Newtown’s First Selectman and the Emergency Management Office urge residents to be prepared for severe cold weather and ask that every resident make appropriate preparations to ensure personal safety and readiness. Also, take action to protect your pets. Please review your preparedness. We ask that you please check on any elderly or frail neighbors to be certain they are doing OK in this weather.

Residents are welcome at the locations listed below to seek relief from the cold:

At Fairfield Hills: The Municipal Center MON thru THURS from 8 am - 8 pm and FRI 8 am - 5 pm

Newtown Community Center MON thru FRI 6 am - 9 pm, SAT/SUN 7 am - 7 pm

Newtown Senior Center, MON thru FRI 9 am - 4 pm. Tel (203) 270-4310

Cyrenius Booth Library, 25 Main Street, Newtown. Tel (203) 426-4533 Hours: Mon thru Thurs – 9:30 am to 8 pm, Fri – 11 am to 5 pm; Sat 9:30 am to 5 pm

Edmond Town Hall Theatre, 45 Main Street, Newtown. Building is open from 8:00 am to 11:00 pm. Call Tel (203) 426-2475 For show listing and times.

Important numbers and contact information: If there is a Life Safety Emergency – call 911

Connecticut’s free information and referral service: call 2-1-1 or visit www.211ct.org

Power outage – call 800-286-2000

Code Red – register at Emergency Management on the Public Safety page on the Town of Newtown’s website http://www.newtown-ct.gov/emergency-management or call 203-270- 4370 for assistance;

Smart 911 – register at Emergency Management on the Public Safety page on the Town of Newtown’s website http://www.newtown-ct.gov/emergency-management

Check News and Announcements on the Town website: www.newtown-ct.gov You can register there too to receive news.

First Selectman’s office Tel (203) 270-4201

Emergency Management/Fire Marshal Tel (203) 270-4370

Health District Tel (203) 270-4291

Newtown Community Center (203) 270-4349