New London — The city has opened a warming shelter in response to a forecast for Arctic temperatures that are expected to linger into next week.

The Senior Center at 120 Broad St. will be open during normal business hours, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., for anyone seeking shelter from the cold. After business hours, men in need will be directed to the Homeless Hospitality Center at 325 Huntington St., and women and children can go to the Covenant Shelter at 42 Jay St.

Any resident that requires additional assistance during this forecasted intense cold weather period is encouraged to call 911 in an emergency or (860) 447-5269 (police/fire dispatch) for routine requests for weather-related assistance. New London police and fire departments also will be alert, vigilant and actively looking for people at risk and they will assist those in need to shelter.

This plan will remain in effect during this dangerous cold weather event, Mayor Michael Passero said in a statement.