In response to extreme temperatures expected to begin today, cooling centers have opened in Wilton for anyone who needs to seek relief from temperatures expected to hit the upper 90s with heat index values that may run as high as 110°F.
The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Watch for Connecticut beginning Wednesday, July 1, with dangerously hot conditions expected through at least Saturday, July 4. Temperatures are forecast to climb into the mid-to-upper 90s, with heat index values potentially reaching 110°F. The prolonged heat wave may continue into early next week.
Gov. Ned Lamont has activated the state’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol effective Tuesday, June 30, and remaining in effect through at least 6 p.m. on Sunday, July 5.
Forecast Highlights
Temperatures will steadily increase, with daytime highs above 90°F from Wednesday through Saturday.
The most dangerous conditions are expected Thursday and Friday, when temperatures may reach 95–100°F and heat index values could approach 110°F.
While there is some uncertainty regarding when the heat wave will end, elevated temperatures are expected through the weekend.
The National Weather Service has placed all of Connecticut in the Major Heat Risk category, one level below the highest Extreme Heat Risk.
Wilton Cooling Centers
The following locations are available as cooling centers:
Comstock Community Center
180 School Rd.
Tuesday–Thursday, 8:30 a.m.–8 p.m.
Wilton YMCA
404 Danbury Rd.
Thursday–Friday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Saturday, 10 a.m.–3 p.m.
Sunday, 12-6 p.m.
Wilton Library
137 Ridgefield Rd.
Tuesday–Thursday, 10 a.m.–8 p.m.
Residents seeking additional cooling centers outside of Wilton may visit www.211ct.org or call 2-1-1.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Wilton Emergency Management has issued some tips and information regarding health and safety during the period of extreme heat.
While anyone can experience a heat-related illness, those at greatest risk include:
- Infants and young children
- Adults age 65 and older
- Individuals who are overweight
- People working or exercising outdoors
- Individuals with chronic medical conditions, including heart disease or high blood pressure, or those taking medications that affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature
Heat Safety Tips
To reduce the risk of heat-related illness:
- Spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings.
- Limit outdoor activities to the early morning or evening hours.
- Take frequent breaks in shaded or cool areas if working outdoors.
- Do not rely on fans as your primary cooling method during extreme heat.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing.
- Take cool showers or baths.
- Check on elderly neighbors, relatives and others who may be vulnerable.
- Ensure pets have constant access to fresh water and shade.
- Never leave children or pets unattended in a parked vehicle.
- Stay Hydrated
Extreme heat can quickly lead to dehydration. To stay safe:
- Drink more water than usual.
- Do not wait until you are thirsty to hydrate.
- If working or exercising outdoors, drink two to four cups of water each hour.
- Avoid alcoholic beverages and drinks high in sugar.
- Encourage family members, coworkers and neighbors to stay hydrated.
For additional emergency preparedness information and heat safety resources, visit the CTPrepares website.
Where are cooling centers after 8 pm? Still high 80’s at 9:30 pm.