December 25, 2025
For Immediate Release
Contact: Kevin Elak, 860-638-4960

City of Middletown Activates Warming Centers in Response to Statewide Extreme Cold Weather Protocol

Middletown — Governor Ned Lamont announced that he is activating the Connecticut’s Severe Cold Weather Protocol beginning at 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 25, 2025, and remaining in effect until 10:00 a.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, due to a blast of arctic conditions that will impact the state during this period, including wind chills during the overnight hours that are expected to drop into the single digits and near zero in some areas

The City of Middletown’s Warming Center, located at 184 High Street, will operate on the following schedule:

December 25th: Open all day

December 26th: Close at 7:30am and re-open at 5:00pm.

December 27th; Close at 7:30am and re-open at 5:00pm

December 28th: close at 10:00am and re-open at 7:00pm.

 People can also seek respite during the extreme cold weather emergency at the following locations:

• Middletown Police Station lobby (222 Main Street) is open 24 hours, 7 days a week.
• Russell Library (123 Broad Street): Friday and Saturday from 9 am – 5 pm, Sunday from 1 pm – 5 pm
• St. Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen (617 Main Street): Friday and Saturday, from 8:30am – 1:30pm, Sunday 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm

United Way’s 2-1-1 is also available 24 hours, 7 days a week to provide residents with information and resources that are available regarding winter storm and extreme cold weather events.  

Frostbite is damage to the skin and underlying tissues caused by prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures. The fingers and toes are the most commonly affected but other extremities including the nose, ears, chin, and cheeks can develop frostbite. Frostbite can range from mild (also called frost nip) to severe or deep. Signs and symptoms of frostbite include cold skin and a pricking feeling numbness, red, white, bluish-white or grayish-yellow skin hard or waxy looking skin. Treatment for mild frostbite includes re-warming of the skin. Other types of frostbite require medical attention because of possible damage to the skin, tissues, muscle, bones, and nerves.

Hypothermia is an abnormally low body temperature caused by prolonged exposures to very cold temperatures. Body temperature that is extremely low can affect the brain, making the victim unable to think clearly or move well.  People who are most at risk are older adults with inadequate food, clothing, or heating and people who remain outdoors for long periods – the homeless, hikers, hunters, etc. Symptoms of hypothermia include shivering, slurred speech, exhaustion or feeling tired, memory loss, confusion, or bright red, cold skin.

If hypothermia is suspected, seek immediate medical attention. While waiting for emergency help to arrive, gently move the person into a warm room or shelter if possible.  If clothing is wet, carefully remove and replace with warm, dry coats or blankets. Warm drinks can help increase body temperature, but do not give alcoholic drinks.

To prevent frostbite and hypothermia, limit time outdoors in cold wet or windy weather. Dress in several layers of loose, warm clothing (air trapped between layers of clothing acts as insulation). Wear windproof and waterproof outer garments that keep moisture away from skin. Wear a hat or headband that fully covers the ears. Wear mittens or gloves (mittens tend to be warmer), wool or polypro socks, and warm, waterproof shoes or boots. Eat well-balanced meals and stay hydrated by drinking warm, non-alcoholic, caffeine-free beverages.

###