Gov. Dannel Malloy activated the state's Severe Cold Weather Protocol as the mercury dipped to near-record low temperatures on Thursday night.
Single-digit temperatures were forecast for Thursday night and Friday morning, especially in northern Connecticut, according to NBC Chief Meteorologist Brad Field.
The record at Bradley Airport for this date is 7 degrees and the record for Sikorsky Airport is 16. Temperatures at Sikorsky could fall below that late Thursday or early Friday, according to Field.
Wind chills dropped near zero Thursday evening, but winds were expected to diminish later at night.
Activating the Severe Cold Weather Protocol directs several state agencies to coordinate with 211 and a network of shelters to ensure those who need a warm place to stay can find one.
The protocol will remain in effect through Friday morning.
Temperatures on Friday are expected to be between 35-40 degrees.
