In light of forecasted temperatures in the mid-90s, Connecticut has activated its extreme hot weather protocol, which includes opening cooling centers across the state.
Gov. Ned Lamont announced that the protocol went into effect Tuesday morning. It remains in effect through Sunday night.
People searching for cooling centers may call 2-1-1 or visit 211ct.org to find a location.
“The purpose of the protocol is to ensure that the most vulnerable populations receive protection from the hot conditions,” a news release says. “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 to get some relief from the hot conditions.”
During the extreme hot weather protocol, state agencies use an internet-based system that allows local officials and first responders to share information about conditions, and energy companies provide the state with updates regarding how the weather is affecting utility services.
Here are ways to stay safe in the summer heat
The forecast
Most of this week will be hot and humid, with highs in the mid-90s. It will feel like 100 degrees on Wednesday. Dew points through Thursday will be in the 70s, which is oppressive. On Friday, it will turn less humid.
Cooling centers open
The city of Hartford has opened up the following cooling centers:
Downtown Library, 500 Main St.: Tuesday through Thursday: 9 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Albany Library, 1250 Albany Ave.: Tuesday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Barbour Library, 261 Barbour St.: Tuesday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Camp Field Library, 30 Campfield Ave.: Tuesday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Dwight Library, 7 New Park Ave.: Tuesday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Park Street Library @ the Lyric, 603 Park St.: Tuesday through Thursday: 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Friday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
North End Senior Center, 80 Coventry St.: Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
South End Wellness Senior Center, 830 Maple Ave.: Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Meteorologist Tyler Jankowski contributed to this report.