Governor Ned Lamont announced yesterday 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, activated on Friday, January 14th, to remain in effect through noon on Wednesday, February 2, 2022. It was originally set to expire yesterday.
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.
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 is a list of available Warming Centers within the Town of Winchester that will be open:
Town Hall, 338 Main Street, 2nd Floor - P. Francis Hicks Room ~~ Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday: 8AM to 4PM; Thursday: 8AM to 6PM; and Friday: 8AM to 12PM
Beardsley & Memorial Library, 40 Munro Place ~~ Tuesday and Wednesday: 10AM to 6PM; Thursday: 10AM to 8PM; Friday: 10AM to 6PM; and Saturday: 10AM to 2PM
Winsted Senior Center (Open to age 55+ or disabled), 80 Holabrid Avenue ~~ Monday: 8AM to 12PM; Tuesday: 8AM to 2PM; Wednesday: 8AM to 12PM; Thursday: 8AM to 2PM; and Friday: 8AM to 12PM
Winsted Area Volunteer Ambulance Headquarters, 655 Main Street ~~ (Hours of operation to be determined based on availability of staffing - Phone: (860) 379-8956)
Additionally, the following local businesses are volunteering as warming centers during their normal business hours. These businesses will not turn anyone away seeking to get warm.
- Dunkin' restaurants, one located at 3 Main Street and one located at 760 Main Street;
- Winsted News Company also known at The Cigar Store located at 418 Main Street;
- Kent Pizza located at 536 Main Street;
- McDonalds Restaurant located on Route 44, 15 South Main Street;
- McGrane's on the Green located at 37 Park Place;
- ABC Pizza located at 228 Main Street; and
- Northwest CT Realty located at 98 Main Street.
Pursuant to the State of Connecticut Severe Cold Weather Protocol, anyone in need of immediate shelter can obtain assistance through the 211 Info line or by contacting and/or visiting the Winchester Police Department.
Please note that the Severe Cold Weather Protocol remains in effect until noon on Wednesday, February 2, 2022.
***Because of COVID 19 anyone entering a warming center will be required to always wear a mask and to maintain appropriate social distancing while in a warming center. This also applies to local businesses offering to act as warming centers.***