Frigid Temperatures To Hit Westport This Weekend

News release from the Town of Westport:

WESTPORT, CT — Governor Ned Lamont has announced that due to an expected period of extremely cold conditions across Connecticut, the state’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol will go into effect starting 12:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 21, 2024, and will remain in place through 12:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, 2024.

Governor Lamont stated, “Anyone in need of a safe place to stay warm is urged to call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org for a list of available locations. Transportation to a shelter or warming center is also available for those in need. Additionally, leaving pets outdoors in these frigid conditions is dangerous, and residents are strongly advised to bring them inside.”

Warming Centers in Westport

The following locations will be open to the public during the cold snap:

• Westport Center for Senior Activities: 21 Imperial Ave Mon-Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.
• Westport Library: 20 Jesup Rd. Thurs, 9 a.m.–9 p.m.; Fri, 9 a.m.–6 p.m.; Sat, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; Sun, 1 p.m.–5 p.m.
• Westport Museum for History and Culture: 25 Avery Place Tues-Sun, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Westport/Weston Family YMCA: 14 Alan Raymond Lane Mon-Sun, 10 a.m.–6 p.m.
• MoCA Westport: 19 Newtown Turnpike Thurs, 12–7 p.m.; Fri-Sun, 12–4 p.m.

Assistance for Residents

Westport residents experiencing hardships due to the cold weather should contact Human Services at 203-341-1050 during regular office hours, Mon-Fri, 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.

Chief Nick Marsan emphasized, “We are committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Westport residents during this extreme cold weather. Please take precautions, check on neighbors who may need assistance, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help if necessary.”

Safety Tips

• Check Your Heat Source: Ensure your heating systems are functioning properly. If you heat with oil, verify your tank levels and arrange deliveries as needed.
• Be Aware of Health Risks: Frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly in extreme cold. Familiarize yourself with the symptoms and take steps to stay warm indoors.

Useful Resources

• Department of Health Cold Weather Safety Resources
• CT Prepares: Updates on weather and safety protocols
• Eversource Storm Safety: Tips for staying safe during extreme weather
• CDC Natural Disasters and Severe Weather: Information on preparing for and managing extreme cold
• Heating Cost Support: Residents struggling with heating costs can find information on energy assistance programs