Governor Extends Severe Cold Weather Protocol until February 2nd due to Incoming Cold
Governor Ned Lamont’s Office: Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to trends in the forecast indicating that temperatures in Connecticut will generally average about 10 degrees below normal for the next two weeks, he is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol – which he activated on Friday, January 14 – to remain in effect through noon on Wednesday, February 2, 2022. It was originally set to expire on Wednesday, January 19.
Current forecasts are indicating that over the next two weeks, highs in the state are generally expected to be in the 20s, with lows in the single digits or teens. At times, the state may experience a few arctic outbreaks during which highs may only reach about 10 degrees, and lows dipping to between -10 and -20 degrees.
“It’s appearing that over the next couple of weeks we’re going to experience temperatures that are even colder than what is normal for this time of year, in addition to the potential for multiple winter storms,” Governor Lamont said. “This long-duration severe cold weather can be life threatening if someone is outdoors for extended periods of time. Shelters are open across the state, and I urge anyone in need to get connected to these services. If you or someone you know is in need of shelter, call 2-1-1 and they will direct you to a nearby location and can also provide transportation if needed.”
The purpose of the severe cold weather protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe cold conditions. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to make sure that anyone in need can receive shelter, including transportation to shelters.
The following actions are implemented while the protocol is enacted:
The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security activates its WebEOC communications network, which is 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 Connecticut Department of Social Services, Connecticut Department of Housing, and Connecticut 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.
Westport Fire Department Warns against Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Westport Fire Department:As winter is upon us, we are reminding residents about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning. “The tragic reality is that most of these carbon monoxide poisonings and deaths are completely preventable,” said Deputy Chief Nick Marsan. “The most effective means of prevention in the home is a carbon monoxide alarm. Teach your family how carbon monoxide gas can harm you and what you can do to keep your family safe.”
Carbon monoxide is an invisible odorless gas that can be fatal. It forms when fuels like gasoline, natural gas, propane, wood, charcoal, and kerosene do not burn completely. Breathing carbon monoxide can deprive the body of oxygen, and may lead to illness, loss of consciousness and death.
Symptoms of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning:
Headache, fatigue, dizziness, confusion, nausea or vomiting, and loss of consciousness.
If several members of a household experience these symptoms when they are home but feel better when they are away from the home, there may be a carbon monoxide problem.
What Should I Do If I Have Symptoms?
Get out of the house immediately and seek medical help if you or a family member or guest has unexplained/sudden onset of symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning.
Call 911 from a cell phone or neighbor’s home and the Connecticut Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222.
How Do I Know?
Carbon monoxide alarms are the only way to know if the deadly gas is present in your home. Department of Health recommends that all residents with fuel burning appliances or indoor equipment install carbon monoxide alarms near all sleeping areas in their home to alert them of the presence of carbon monoxide. Install a carbon monoxide alarm on each floor of your home and outside of each bedroom. Install new batteries as per manufacturer’s instructions and replace alarms every five years, as the sensors degrade.
How can I stay safe?
Never use portable generators, charcoal or gas grills, gas or propane powered pressure washers, saws or other fuel powered equipment inside your home, garage, carport, basement, or other enclosed spaces. Opening windows and doors, and operating fans is not enough to prevent buildup of carbon monoxide in a home
Install a carbon monoxide alarm on each floor of your home & outside of each bedroom.
Make sure the exhaust pipe on your standby generator is pointing away from the house.
Place portable generators at least 20 feet from the house.
Make sure gas dryer vents and automobile tail pipes are not plugged up with snow.
Have your heating systems, chimney flues, gas appliances, wood stoves, and generators checked every year, and cleaned and serviced as needed by qualified heating/appliance contractors.
Sign up for local EMERGENCY ALERTS: Text 06880 to 888777
Or sign up now at http://www.nixle.com
Morning Weather Report
Tonight
Partly cloudy, with a low around 20. West wind 5 to 8 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Tomorrow
Partly sunny, with a high near 43. Wind chill values between 10 and 20. Southwest wind 6 to 15 mph.
Tomorrow Night
A chance of rain before 4am, then snow likely. Increasing clouds, with a low around 32. Southwest wind around 6 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New snow accumulation of less than a half inch possible.
Westport COVID-19 Cases Up 64; State Positivity, Hospitalizations Continue to Decline
The Aspetuck Health District and the State Department of Public Health reported 64 new COVID-19 cases for Westport over the weekend. The State’s daily test positivity rate was down again today, sitting at 17.09% while hospitalizations were also down as 38 patients were released from hospitals, totaling 1,857 patients. 67.5% of those hospitalized are not fully vaccinated.
Westport total positive or probable cases: 3,392 cases.
Westport total COVID-19 Deaths: 33 deaths
State Daily Test Positivity: 17.09% [down from 19.35%]
State Hospitalizations: 1,857 patients [-38]