Wilton Opens Warming Centers As Lamont Activates Severe Cold Weather Protocol

WILTON, CT — Wilton officials are opening several warming centers after Gov. Ned Lamont activated Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol on Thursday, citing a forecast of arctic temperatures expected to drop into the single digits with wind chills near zero.

The protocol, activated at 3 p.m. Thursday and remaining in effect through noon Tuesday, is the first statewide cold-weather response of the season. Lamont said the early-season cold snap poses significant risks.

“It is going to be exceptionally cold for this early in the season,” Lamont said in a statement. “This kind of arctic air can be dangerous, and spending long periods of time outdoors in these conditions is not only harmful, but it can also be fatal.”

Wilton Emergency Management Director Jim Blanchfield said local warming centers will be available throughout the duration of the cold spell.

Wilton Warming Center Locations and Hours

• Comstock Community Center, 180 School Road Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m.–5 p.m.
• Wilton YMCA, 404 Danbury Road Monday–Friday: 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
• Wilton Library, 137 Ridgefield Road Monday–Friday: 10 a.m.–7:30 p.m.

Residents in need of shelter can call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org for the nearest available location. Wilton Social Services is also available at 203-834-6238.

Lamont noted that transportation to shelters can be provided if needed and urged residents to look out for neighbors and pets during the cold weather.

The statewide protocol allows state agencies, municipalities, and local providers to coordinate through the state’s WebEOC system to track shelter capacity and arrange services. The Connecticut Departments of Social Services, Housing, and Mental Health and Addiction Services are coordinating with 2-1-1 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness to assist those seeking shelter.