A deep chill is expected across the state over the next two days. In New London County, the National Weather Service is forecasting lows in the lower teens and highs in the mid-20s to low 30s Thursday and Friday.

Gov. Ned Lamont has instructed state departments to activate the severe cold weather protocol. It is intended to enable “anyone in need to receive protection from extreme cold weather by initiating a series of procedures to ensure that shelters are available and transportation is provided to help bring people indoors,” according to the state’s website. Municipal officials and shelters across the state are urged to make warming centers and overflow shelters available.

Under the protocol, which is in effect until 9 a.m. Saturday, New London will be opening a warming center at the Senior Citizens Center, 120 Broad St., from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. through Friday. Those who may need assistance outside those hours will be directed to the Homeless Hospitality center, 325 Huntington St., or the Covenant Shelter, 42 Jay St. If residents require routine assistance, they may call police or firefighters at (860) 447-5269; for emergency assistance, they are directed to call 911.

Police officers and firefighters also will be alert and looking for people who may be at risk, according to a news release from Mayor Michael Passero. 

"Our community is committed to ensuring our residents are safe and warm and we will employ additional resources should it be necessary during this cold weather period," Passero said in the release.

For a listing of available shelters throughout the state, call 211 or visit www.211ct.org. State social service departments coordinate with the 211 service, the Connecticut Coalition to End Homelessness and community-based providers to arrange for transportation for people seeking shelter, according to the news release from the governor's office.

“We must ensure that services are available to protect the most vulnerable populations during these periods of cold weather," Lamont said in the release.