WESTPORT–Fire Chief and Emergency Management Director Nicholas L. Marsan has activated the town’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol. Through Tuesday, Dec. 9 at noon, heat-insecure Westporters can visit the warming centers listed below.

According to a press release, this activation aligns with statewide guidance intended to protect vulnerable residents during extreme temperature events. 

“This arctic outbreak will be sudden and unusually early in the season,” Marsan said. “Activating the cold weather protocol ensures we’re doing everything possible to reduce the risk to our community and provide safe options for residents needing warmth.”

According to Marsan, over the next four days, temperatures are forecast to average 10 to 20 degrees below normal. Tonight’s temperatures are expected to fall into the single digits, with wind chills near zero away from the immediate coast. While temperatures may fluctuate over the weekend, conditions will remain well below normal, with highs in the 30s and overnight lows near 20 degrees. Another surge of cold air is expected Monday, with highs in the mid-20s and lows again in the single digits. Some improvement is forecast Tuesday as highs return to the 30s.

Warming Centers in Westport

The following locations will be open to the public during the current cold snap:

Westport Center for Senior Activities
21 Imperial Ave
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Westport Library
20 Jesup Rd.
Thursday: 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Sunday: 1 p.m. – 5 p.m.

Westport Museum for History and Culture
25 Avery Place
Tuesday–Saturday: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Westport/Weston Family YMCA
14 Alan Raymond Lane
Monday–Friday: 5:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Saturday–Sunday: 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Assistance for Residents

Residents experiencing hardships due to the cold, including those without adequate heat, are encouraged to contact:

Westport Human Services
203-341-1050
(Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.)

For after-hours support, dial 2-1-1 for statewide assistance and access to emergency shelter services.

If someone is in immediate danger, call 9-1-1.

Westport Emergency Management will continue to monitor weather conditions and provide updates as necessary throughout the duration of the protocol.

The CDC’s guidance on frostbite and hypothermia is below.