NEW LONDON, Conn. (WTNH)– Emergency measures may soon be needed all across the state as overnight temperatures could drop into the single digits. A bitter cold forecast New London planned for as far back as September.
“Whenever the temperatures get down into those ranges with the wind chills that we’re talking about, it’s life threatening, and we have to be able to respond to people’s crises quickly,” said Mayor Michael Passero, (D) New London.
The city has a warm relationship with social service agencies and the New London Homeless Hospitality Center, which has had to change its sleeping arrangements to keep people farther apart during the pandemic.
It can now house about 50 people a night and an emergency shelter can be opened to house 50 more if needed.
“It’s a large space and it has plenty of room for people to spread out and stay warm,” explained Mayor Passero.
Wednesday the temperatures in New London were in the mid 30s which feel like a heat wave compared to how it is going to feel on Friday.
People are also concerned about the elderly with these frigid temperatures. They are urged to check on older relatives and neighbors. Groton police are also available to do the same.
“We would send someone out to do… it’s a well being check on them,” said Groton Police Captain James Bee.
Officers also stop by local homeless camps where many often try to brave the cold each winter.
“I know they appreciate when we come check on them,” said Capt. Bee. “Generally they don’t ask for too much but if they needed something we’d certainly accommodate them.”
They’ll try their best when the weather is at its worst.
“Even housing them here in the lobby until we can make arrangements for them to keep them out of the cold,” said Capt. Bee.
A potentially dangerous time for people and pets. The Humane Society says neither should be left out in the cold.
