Bridgeport Extends Cold Weather Protocol Amidst Freezing Forecast

BRIDGEPORT, CT — Bridgeport has extended its Cold Weather Protocol through noon on Tuesday, Feb. 10. Mayor Ganim and the Office of Emergency Management issued the advisory due to a forecast of intense cold in the Bridgeport area. Wind chill values are expected to be near zero during this period.

Residents are encouraged to take precautions and prepare for freezing temperatures. The advisory also noted the possibility of snow this weekend, with weather conditions under close monitoring. Officials recommend allowing extra travel time on roadways and exercising caution during morning commutes due to potential slippery conditions.

Key safety measures include checking heating devices and avoiding the use of stoves or ovens for heat to prevent gas, carbon monoxide, and fire hazards. If using a generator, residents should follow manufacturer instructions and never use it indoors. Pet owners are advised to bring their animals inside during cold temperatures. It is also important to watch for ice on pipes and ground surfaces and to bundle up when going outside. Residents are encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and family members during colder weather.

For the homeless population, Operation Care is active. Residents can call 2-1-1 to assist individuals experiencing homelessness. The homeless Outreach Team is connecting people with shelters such as Prospect House, Bridgeport Rescue Mission, and Alpha Community. Assistance is also available at 650 Park Avenue.

Warming centers are available throughout the city:

Senior Centers (Open only weekdays):

• Black Rock Senior Center – 2676 Fairfield Avenue, (9:00am-3:00pm)

• East Side Senior Center – 268 Putnam Street, (9:00am-3:00pm)

• Eisenhower Senior Center – 307 Golden Hill Street, (9:00am-3:00pm)

GBT Station

• 710 Water Street, Mon- Fri (9am-9pm)

Bridgeport Public Library Branches:

• Main Branch – 925 Broad Street, Mon & Tues (10:00am-6:00pm), Wed (10:00pm-8:00pm), Thurs (12:00pm-8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm). Sunday (Closed).

• Black Rock Branch – 2705 Fairfield Avenue, Mon & Wed (10:00am-6:00pm), Tues (10:00am-8:00pm), Thurs (12:00am-8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm). Sunday (Closed).

• Newfield Branch – 755 Central Avenue, Mon & Tues (10:00am-6:00pm), Wed & Thurs (10:00am- 7:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm). Sunday (Closed).

• North Branch – 3455 Madison Avenue, Mon & Wed (10:00am-6:00pm), Tues (12:00pm- 8:00pm), Thurs (10:00am- 8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm) Sunday (Closed).

• Beardsley Branch – 2536 East Main Street, Mon (10:00am-6:00pm), Tues (12:00pm-8:00pm) Wed & Thurs (10:00am-8:00pm), Fri & Sat (10:00am-5:00pm) Sunday (Closed).

• East Side Branch – Temporarily closed for renovation

South End Community Center- Overnight Stay/Case Worker Support

• 650 Park Ave– Open 24/7
• Limited overnight capacity

In the event of a power outage, residents can contact the United Illuminating customer hotline at 800-722-5584.

For the latest updates, residents can follow the Bridgeport Emergency Operations Center on X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.