Gov. Lamont activates state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol until Friday afternoon

Gov. Ned Lamont announced Wednesday that he's putting all hands on deck for Wednesday night's snowstorm.

News 12 Staff

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Dec 16, 2020, 11:14 PM

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Updated 1,394 days ago

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Gov. Ned Lamont announced Wednesday that he's putting all hands on deck for Wednesday night's snowstorm.

He earlier said that he is directing Connecticut's Severe Cold Weather Protocol to be activated at 3:00 p.m. Wednesday through 12:00 p.m. Friday, Dec. 18.

Lamont says that there will be 634 state plows and 1,600 workers out in the conditions on state roads.

He says once the snow starts coming down at two or three inches an hour, it's going to be nearly impossible for plows to keep up.

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Lamont also announced a statewide tractor-trailer ban on all Connecticut roads starting at 9 p.m. and running through 9 a.m. Thursday.

The state Department of Transportation also says expect big changes to trains and buses.

"All districts' bus services across the state will complete their regular runs tonight and will not start up again till after noon tomorrow. Pay attention to Metro-North as well because they're looking to cancel their late-night trains - anything around 11:00," says Connecticut Transportation Commissioner Joe Giulietti.

In spite of earlier suggestions, the DOT says it is not down any plow drivers due to COVID-19.

News 12 meteorologists say high winds are also expected.

Eversource says it has 475 line workers ready to go, as well as 200 tree crews.

CONNECTICUT'S SEVERE COLD WEATHER PROTOCOL:

It is the first time this season that the protocol has been activated.

Connecticut officials say the protocol sets up a system for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 211 and Connecticut’s network of shelters to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the severe conditions. United Way 211 operates as the point of contact for individuals who need shelter and transportation to shelters.

Officials say anyone in need of shelter is urged to call 211 to get connected to these services. Protocols have been enacted at shelters throughout the state to adhere to the necessary COVID-19 safety measures.

Officials say while activated, the protocol enacts the following actions:

The 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 211 to act as a clearinghouse to assist in finding shelter space for those who need it. Local officials, working through WebEOC, can alert 211 and the state when they open temporary shelters or warming centers.
The Department of Social Services, Department of Housing, and Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services coordinate with 211 and the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness, along with community-based providers, to provide transportation for people seeking shelter.

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