Medical experts say temperatures as bitterly cold as Wednesday's pose a real danger, especially if you're outside for any length of time.
Residents say they ventured out in short amounts of time, which medical professionals say is a good idea.
Kyle Adams, of Docs Urgent Care in Fairfield, says prolonged exposure to the frigid temperatures can cause severely chapped skin that can let infection in. He says the cold can cause your body temperature to drop enough to lead to hypothermia, and that frostbite can do permanent damage to extremities like the nose, ears, toes and fingers.
Gov. Dannel Malloy says he will keep the state's Severe Weather Protocol in place through New Year's Day, which means warming centers will be open.
Residents can find a warming center by dialing 211.