With cold weather forecast, Gov. Dannel P. Malloy's office announced that the state's "Severe Cold Weather Protocol" will be in effect from Wednesday afternoon through Friday morning.

"Winter weather conditions are coming to Connecticut early this year, and the next couple of nights are expected to be brutally cold," Malloy said in a statement. "It is a priority that anyone in need receives protection from the bitter conditions, and this protocol initiates a series of procedures to ensure that shelters are available and transportation is provided to help bring people indoors."

According to the news release, several state agencies are ordered to coordinate with "2-1-1 and Connecticut's network of shelters to ensure that the state's most vulnerable populations receive shelter and are protected from the severe cold weather." Shelters and warming centers can be found by calling 2-1-1 or visiting www.211ct.org.