(HARTFORD, CT) - With a winter storm bearing down on the state, Governor Dannel P. Malloy is urging residents to take it slow and, if possible, avoid travel during the height of the storm on Monday morning. Governor Malloy has also directed the activation of the state's Emergency Operations Center (EOC) at 4:00 a.m. on Monday to monitor conditions across the state and quickly coordinate any assistance that may be necessary.

In addition, the Governor has ordered a delayed opening for state offices on Monday, February 2, 2015, and is directing nonessential state employees to report to work at 10:00 a.m.

"I am asking everyone to take it slow for tomorrow's commutes and if possible to avoid travel during the height of the storm Monday morning," Governor Malloy said. "I have asked all state employees to report to work at 10:00 a.m. so that the DOT can clear the roads without the usual morning rush hour traffic. Private sector companies may want to consider similar plans."

He continued, "We are also taking steps to make sure that we can take care of those in need of shelter. I urge anyone in need of shelter to call 2-1-1 and continue to encourage local communities to consider opening warming centers or other facilities to help people in need."

Last week, Governor Malloy activated the state's severe cold weather protocol through February 8, which directs the DESPP's Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security (DEMHS), the Department of Social Services (DSS), the Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) and the Department of Housing (DOH) to coordinate with 2-1-1 and Connecticut's network of shelters to ensure that the state's most vulnerable people are protected from the severe cold weather.

"State emergency management officials continue to prepare for the potential impacts of this storm and continue to provide me with regular updates," Governor Malloy added.

The National Weather Service has issued Winter Storm Warnings for the entire state from this evening thru Monday afternoon. Total accumulations are currently forecast to range from 6-10" in Southern CT, 8-12" just south of the 1-84 corridor and 10"-14" across Northern CT, with some slightly higher amounts in the Northwest Hills.

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For Immediate Release: February 1, 2015

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