Greenwich residents face dangerous heat from Tuesday through Thursday, with temperatures forecast in the mid-to-high 90s and a heat index topping 100 degrees.
Gov. Ned Lamont activated Connecticut's Extreme Hot Weather Protocol at 11 a.m. Tuesday, July 14, through 5 p.m. Thursday, July 16, according to the governor's office. It marks at least the third time this summer the state has triggered the protocol for Connecticut communities.
The town has designated the following locations as cooling centers during each heat activation this summer, according to prior Town of Greenwich press releases:
- Greenwich Public Safety Complex, Margenot Atrium — open 24 hours a day, seven days a week
- Town Hall — during regular business hours
- All town libraries — during regular hours
- Cohen Eastern Greenwich Civic Center
- Bendheim Western Greenwich Civic Center
The Margenot Atrium at the Public Safety Complex serves as the primary cooling center when other town facilities are closed, including evenings and weekends.
Residents should confirm hours and availability at greenwichct.gov/2366/Emergency-Warming-Cooling-Centers or by calling United Way 2-1-1. Statewide cooling center locations are also listed at 211ct.org.
The Greenwich Department of Health has identified several groups as especially vulnerable during extreme heat: elderly residents, young children, people with medical conditions or on medications that affect body temperature regulation, those without air conditioning, and outdoor workers.
First Selectman Fred Camillo has urged residents during prior heat events this summer to limit their time outdoors, check on vulnerable neighbors and loved ones, and never leave pets or children unattended in vehicles. The town issued similar guidance during the June 30–July 5 activation, when the heat index reached 105 to 110 degrees.
Heat stroke requires an immediate 911 call. Symptoms include flushed, hot, dry skin; elevated body temperature; confusion; and seizures.
Heat exhaustion is less severe but still serious. Look for heavy sweating, pale and clammy skin, fatigue, headache, and dizziness. Move to a cool area and drink water or an electrolyte solution.
Heat cramps are an early signal the body is struggling with the heat. Muscular pains and spasms during heavy exertion mean it's time to rest and hydrate.
Town officials advise drinking more water than you think you need; by the time you feel thirsty, dehydration has already begun. The Greenwich Department of Health also recommends avoiding alcohol during high temperatures and ensuring access to an air conditioner or fan.
Residents can sign up for emergency weather alerts at GreenwichAlerts.org.
The protocol ends at 5 p.m. Thursday, July 16.
