Area towns to open warming centers ahead of freezing temps

Freezing temperatures have Danbury-area towns alerting residents of warming centers nearby.

On Monday, Gov. Ned Lamont activated the state’s first severe cold weather protocol of this winter season, which is in effect from noon Monday until noon Wednesday.

The low temperature on Tuesday is in the single digits, while the high is in the low twenties. Temperatures will dip into the teens Monday night.

“The purpose of the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold conditions, which could be life threatening if exposed to the elements for extended periods of time,” the state’s press release reads.

An alert sent out by Brookfield First Selectman Tara Carr states that warming centers will be open Tuesday at the senior center, the library, and the Greenknoll YMCA during their normal operating hours.

In New Milford, residents can go to the Loretta Brickley Room at Town Hall, which will be available as a warming station from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Tuesday, according to an announcement on the town website. Seniors can go to senior center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Newtown residents can go to the C.H. Booth Library, Edmond Town Hall Theater, the community and senior centers, or the municipal center, according to the town’s cold weather alert.

“Yes, it’s winter and we live in New England, but we don’t want anyone to suffer complications from the cold,” the announcement reads. “We ask that you please check on any elderly or frail neighbors to be certain they are doing OK in this weather.”

Danbury had not yet released information on warming centers as of early Monday evening.

“While we’ve had relatively mild weather so far this winter, it looks like we are about to receive our first blast of freezing cold air beginning this evening,” Lamont said in his press release. “Being outdoors in these arctic conditions for extended periods is not safe, and we must spread the word that shelters and warming centers are open all across Connecticut.

Those in need of shelter, or trying to help someone else find a warming center, can call 2-1-1 for assistance. Residents can also use the 2-1-1 search tool to find the nearest warming center.