FIRST ALERT: Bitter Cold Tuesday Will Feel Below Zero

The NBC Connecticut meteorologists are issuing a first alert for Tuesday morning with the forecast for sub-zero wind chill factors.

Feel-like temperatures will be between 0 and negative 20.

The high temperatures will only range from about 7 degrees in the hills to 13 in Hartford to 17 in New Haven, but the breeze will make it feel much colder.

Tomorrow morning looks pretty brutal. We've seen worse, but it feels like it's been a while. (see what I did there?) Prolonged skin exposure can lead to frost bite after several minutes. Let's be smart about this and be prepared. Air temps near 5 can stress your car battery too. pic.twitter.com/7tjtu6If0j

— Bob Maxon (@bobmaxon) January 10, 2022

CT SEVERE COLD WEATHER PROTOCOL

Gov. Ned Lamont is directing the state’s severe cold weather protocol to be activated for the first time this winter.

It began at noon on Monday and will be in effect through noon Wednesday.

During this time period, a system is set up for state agencies and municipalities to coordinate with United Way 211 and Connecticut shelters so anyone in need can receive shelter from the outdoors, including transportation to shelters.

Anyone in need is urged to call 211 for help to find services.

The governor's office said safety measures have been enacted at shelters and warming centers throughout the state to adhere to the needs of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

SCHOOL DELAYS

A number of school districts have decided to open late Tuesday morning due to the expected dangerous wind chills.

See the full list of delays and closings here.

WARMING CENTERS OPEN

Some cities and towns are opening warming centers to keep people safe.

See the list here.

COVID-19 TESTING SITES CLOSED

Several COVID-19 testing sites said they'll be closed Tuesday because of bitter cold temps. For a list of testing locations, click here.

You can get the latest forecast anytime here.