Southeastern Connecticut hit by deep freeze as 'winter is just getting underway'
Wind chill temperatures plummeted below zero degrees Fahrenheit on Tuesday as sub-zero winds moved across the state, according to the National Weather Service.
Gary Lessor, chief meteorologist with the Western Connecticut State University Connecticut Weather Center, reported a high of 22 degrees on Tuesday and a low of 14 degrees, with wind chills between 5 and minus 5 degrees at the Groton-New London Airport.
Wednesday is forecast to be partly sunny and noticeably milder, with highs around 40 degrees for the shore and in the mid- to upper 30s inland, he said. Weather for the rest of the week also is forecast to be more moderate, but the region won't see the last of cold weather.
"Winter is just getting underway," Lessor said.
Saturday will be a very cold day like Tuesday, with Sunday warmer but remaining cold, he said. A coastal storm — anticipated to be snow changing to rain — is forecast for Monday. More very cold air is possible by the end of next week, he added.
By 8 a.m. Tuesday, temperatures had dropped to minus 3 degrees Fahrenheit in New London, according to the National Weather Service. "Right now is probably the coldest windchill temperatures we'll see," NWS meteorologist James Tomasini said Tuesday morning.
Though skies were bright blue and sunny — with no snow predicted this week — frigid winds were causing the deep chill. As of about 8 a.m. Tuesday, wind gusts were as high as 24 mph. The winds were expected to taper off by Tuesday evening.
The sub-zero temperatures prompted delays at schools across the state.
Shelters opened
The NWS on Monday had issued a warning of the dangers of extreme cold. "If you need to be outside, be prepared for the wind and cold, and dress in layers and wear a hat, heavy coat, as well as gloves or mittens," it advised. "Frostbite can occur in a short amount of time, so dress in layers and make sure all exposed skin is protected."
New London is operating a warming center through Wednesday at the Public Library of New London, 63 Huntington St., from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. After business hours, adults in need will be directed to the New London Homeless Hospitality Center at 325 Huntington St., and women and children to the Covenant Shelter at 42 Jay St.
The Eastern Coordinated Access Network also runs a warming center at New London United Methodist Church, 130 Broad St., which is open 6 p.m. to 8 a.m. daily and is for individuals, not families.
In Waterford, the community center, 24 Rope Ferry Road, is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Anyone who needs shelter can call 211, a program from the United Way of Connecticut, to find the closest location.
Gov. Ned Lamont on Monday activated the state's first severe cold weather protocol of the 2021-22 winter season, which is in effect until noon Wednesday. While enacted, municipalities and state agencies coordinate with 211 and shelters to make sure people in need can get transportation to a shelter. Lamont's office said safety measures have been enacted to adjust to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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