heat advisory

Heat Advisory: Gov. Lamont Activates Extreme Hot Weather Protocol for CT

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Cooling Centers Will Open and Can be Located by Calling 2-1-1 or Visiting 211ct.org

 Governor Ned Lamont today announced that due to a weather forecast indicating that Connecticut will experience a multi-day stretch of exceptionally hot and humid conditions, he is directing Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol to be activated effective at noon on Sunday, June 22, 2025, and remaining in effect through at least 8:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 25, 2025.

This is the first time this year that the protocol is being activated. The current forecast shows that temperatures will exceed 90 degrees over this period, with a heat index that could range from 100 to 105 degrees.

The purpose of activating the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the hot conditions. While enacted, a system is set up for state agencies, municipalities, and other partners to coordinate with United Way 2-1-1 to make sure that information regarding cooling centers is available statewide, providing a location for those in need of relief.

Cooling centers will be available throughout the state. Anyone in need of a place to get out of the heat can locate their nearest cooling center by calling 2-1-1 or viewing the list that will be published online at 211ct.org.

“It looks like we are about to experience our first heat wave of the season, and when temperatures get this hot, people who are most vulnerable, especially those who are of a certain age or who have certain medical conditions, should take the necessary precautions to stay cool,” Governor Lamont said. “We are working with our partners to get cooling centers open across Connecticut. Anyone who needs a place to get some relief can call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to get directed to their nearest cooling center. Additionally, our friends at United Way 2-1-1 can help connect anyone in need with the transportation necessary to get to a cooling center.”

The following actions are implemented while Connecticut’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol is enacted:

  • The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security uses 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.
  • Municipalities and other partners submit information on cooling center openings into the WebEOC, which provides a real-time database on the availability of these locations statewide. United Way 2-1-1 uses the system to act as a clearinghouse to assist residents in locating a cooling center.
  • Regional coordinators from the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security monitor WebEOC to respond to any requests from municipalities for state assistance.
  • The energy utility companies provide the state with regular updates regarding the impact of the weather conditions on their respective utilities throughout the protocol.

Although anyone can suffer from heat-related illness, some people are at greater risk than others:

  • Infants and young children are sensitive to the effects of high temperatures and rely on others to regulate their environments and provide adequate liquids.
  • People 65 years of age or older may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature.
  • People who are overweight may be prone to heat sickness because of their tendency to retain more body heat.
  • People who overexert during work or exercise may become dehydrated and susceptible to heat sickness.
  • People who are physically ill, especially those with heart disease or high blood pressure, or who take certain medications, such as for depression, insomnia, or poor circulation, may be affected by extreme heat.

Some prevention tips to stay safe in extreme heat include:

  • Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness.
  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must be outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to the morning and evening. Try to rest often in shady areas so that your body has a chance to cool off.
  • Find an air-conditioned location. (Call 2-1-1 for a list of cooling centers.) Do not rely on a fan as your primary cooling device.
  • Avoid direct sunlight.
  • Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
  • Take cool showers or baths.
  • Check on those most at-risk several times a day.
  • Pets that cannot be brought indoors should be provided with ready access to water and shade to keep them cool.
  • Never leave pets inside parked vehicles because temperatures can soar to life-threatening levels within minutes.

Everyone is also reminded to stay hydrated during periods of extreme heat. As we lose fluid through sweat, dehydration is common during very high temperatures. It is strongly encouraged to:

  • Drink more water than usual.
  • Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink more fluids.
  • Drink two to four cups of water every hour while working or exercising outside.
  • Avoid alcohol or liquids containing high amounts of sugar.
  • Remind others to drink enough water.

Extreme Hot Weather Protocol Activated — What You Need to Know

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Woman drinking water in heat wave

With temperatures expected to reach the mid-to-upper 80s for several consecutive days this week, Governor Ned Lamont has activated the state’s “Extreme Hot Weather Protocol”  to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the hot conditions. The protocol goes into effect at noon on Tuesday, June 18, and will remain in effect through noon on Sunday, June 23.

Staying Cool During the Heatwave

Those in the Uncas Health District can find a continuously updated list of available cooling centers by calling 2-1-1 or visiting 211ct.org. Additionally, St. Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich will be open as a cooling center starting at 6:30 a.m. each day through Saturday.

Taking Precautions

Extreme heat can pose serious health risks, especially for vulnerable populations. Here are some essential precautions to take during the heatwave:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary drinks and excessive amounts of alcohol, as they can dehydrate you.
  • Stay Cool Indoors: Limit strenuous activity outdoors, especially during peak heat hours (typically between 10 am and 4 pm). If you don’t have air conditioning, spend time in public libraries, shopping malls, or cooling centers.
  • Dress for the Weather: Wear loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton.
  • Protect Yourself from the Sun: Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher and wear a wide-brimmed hat whenever outdoors.
  • Never Leave Children or Pets Unattended in Vehicles: This can be deadly, even for short periods.

Recognizing Heat-Related Illness

It’s important to be aware of the signs of heat-related illness, which can range from mild to life-threatening. Here’s what to watch for:

  • Heat Exhaustion: Symptoms include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea, and cold, clammy skin.
  • Heatstroke: This is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Signs include a high body temperature (above 103°F), confusion, disorientation, seizures, and a rapid, weak pulse.

If you experience any concerning symptoms, move to a cool place, remove excess clothing, and drink fluids. In severe cases, call 911 immediately.

By following these tips and staying informed, you can stay safe and healthy during this heatwave. Let’s work together to beat the heat and ensure a comfortable week for everyone in Connecticut.

Additional Tips From the Department of Public Health

Norwich Cooling Center to open for forecasted extreme heat September 5-7

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heat advisory

With temperatures expected to reach the low 90s this week, the Norwich Cooling Center at the Rose City Senior Center will be open 5:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 5, Wednesday, Sept. 6, and Thursday, Sept. 7. The cooling center, located at 8 Mahan Drive in Norwich, has a capacity of 200.

Additionally, the Connecticut Department of Health has issued a reminder to all state residents to be very cautious when outside and to make sure they remain cool and hydrated.

From the DPH:

With temperatures anticipated to rise close to or into the low 90s this week, Connecticut Department of Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, is reminding individuals who will be spending time outside or in non-air-conditioned spaces to be cautious during periods of intense heat during the day.

The current forecast indicates that temperatures over this period will rise close to or into the low 90s, and the heat index is expected to reach into the mid-90s in certain inland areas of the state. On Monday, Governor Ned Lamont announced that he is directing Connecticut’s extreme hot weather protocol to be activated effective at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 5, and remaining in effect through 8 pm. on Thursday, Sept. 7.

“While Labor Day signals the unofficial end of summer, that doesn’t mean that we won’t continue to see high temperatures that will feel very hot and humid,” said Commissioner Juthani. “During this heat wave, residents should stay hydrated, take frequent breaks in cooler air-conditioned/shaded areas, and limit the time spent in direct sun. Additionally, more physical tasks should take place in the morning or evening, when the sun is less intense, and temperatures are cooler.”

Commissioner Juthani added that those who are experiencing heat stress should call for medical assistance immediately. Although anyone can be affected by heat-stress, those working outside are at a particularly high risk including:

  • Older individuals (over 65 years of age) who may not compensate for heat stress efficiently and are less likely to sense and respond to changes in temperature
  • Those performing frequent high-exertion tasks (lifting, digging, walking) who may become dehydrated quickly and experience more intense heat stress
  • Those who have underlying health conditions, especially heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, or who take certain medications that put them at risk

 Follow the steps below to stay cool and hydrated while working in the heat:

 Stay Cool

Keep your body temperature cool to avoid heat-related illness.

  • Stay in air-conditioned buildings as much as possible. If you must work outdoors, try to limit your outdoor activity to the mornings and evenings.
  • Avoid working in direct sunlight and wear lightweight, light-colored, and moisture-wicking clothing.
  • Check on family members, especially those most at risk often.
  • If you feel ill working in the heat, notify a family member and stop working.

Stay Hydrated

Because your body loses fluids through sweat, you can become dehydrated during times of extreme heat.

  • Drink more water than usual; do not wait until you are thirsty to drink more liquids.
  • Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages.
  • Drink about four cups of water every hour while working outside.
  • Remind others to drink enough water.

 

For more information about steps that employers and workers can take to reduce the risk of heat-related illness, contact the Connecticut Department of Public Health’s Occupational Health Program at (860) 509-7740 or email [email protected].