Eversource reported about 4,300 residents (as of 10:20 pm Fri.) without power as Connecticut descended into an epically cold, windy Friday night. A National Weather Service wind chill warning remained in effect through late Saturday morning, with the wind chill expected to fall to about -33 F overnight (actual temperature about -7 F), with wind gusting to 50 mph.
The high temperature Saturday could hit 17 F, but wind gusts to 40 mph could keep the wind chill well into negative territory.
The state is operating under its severe cold weather protocol, with communities like Hartford working to protect vulnerable residents.
"We want to make sure that anybody who is at risk from this extreme cold is taken care of and protected," says Mayor Luke Bronin.
To that end, warming centers are open overnight at 110 Washington St. (through 12pm Sun., adults only) and at Marshall House, 333 Homestead Ave. (families with children and young adults 18-24 years old). Anyone in need to shelter can call 2-1-1. The city says no one will be turned away.
"Everyone will be provided with a warm place to stay," says Hartford Director of Health Liany Arroyo.
Center Church, at the corner of Main St. and Gold St., Hartford, will also be open for warming during daylight hours Saturday.
In addition to asking residents to keep themselves warm, the mayor wants them to check on friends and neighbors, and to call 9-1-1 if they come across someone in medical distress.
He says Hartford police will also be looking for those who need shelter: "Whenever we have a severe cold spell like this, our police officers are going around trying to find anybody who may be exposed to that cold, and try to bring them to warmth."
Bronin says indoor activities will also be available, as previously scheduled, at two library branches on Saturday.
