Mayor Pernerewski Activates Emergency Operations Center as Major Winter Storm Targets Waterbury

By The Waterbury Times|Published Feb 22, 2026

WATERBURY, CT — Paul K. Pernerewski Jr. has ordered the activation of the City of Waterbury’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC) beginning at 5:00 PM Sunday as a powerful winter storm is expected to bring heavy snowfall, dangerous winds, and potential power outages across the region.

Storm Forecast: 12–24 Inches Expected

City officials warn that Waterbury could see 12 to 24 inches of snow, with the heaviest accumulation expected overnight into Monday morning.

Strong east-northeast winds of 55–65 MPH may produce:

  • Blowing and drifting snow
  • Near whiteout conditions
  • Scattered power outages
  • Hazardous or impossible travel at peak storm hours

Residents are strongly urged to avoid all non-essential travel during the height of the storm.


Emergency Operations Center Activated

The EOC will coordinate:

  • Public safety response
  • Road treatment and plowing
  • Emergency services
  • Real-time monitoring of storm conditions

Residents can call 311 or (203) 597-3444 for non-emergency storm-related concerns.

The Department of Public Works reports it has adequate salt, sand, fuel, and staffing for continuous operations.

Mayor Pernerewski stated:

“Our city crews and first responders are ready to face this storm… We urge all residents to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Your safety is our top priority.”


Citywide Snow Parking Ban (Begins 1 PM Sunday)

Waterbury Activates Snow Parking Ban Ahead of Winter Storm

citywide snow parking ban is now in effect:

  • No parking on odd-numbered sides of streets
  • Move vehicles to:
    • Even-numbered side
    • Private driveways
    • Municipal garages

Free Municipal Parking Garages

  • Scovill Street Garage — 33 Scovill Street
  • Buckingham Garage — 210 Bank Street

Vehicles in violation may be ticketed or towed


School and City Closures

  • Waterbury Public Schools: CLOSED Monday, Feb. 23
  • All after-school and community events: CANCELED
  • City Hall & municipal offices: CLOSED for non-essential staff

Essential personnel must report as directed.

Waterbury Reschedules Board of Aldermen Meeting Ahead of Major Winter Storm


Refuse & Recycling Changes

  • No pickup Monday (Feb. 23)
  • Monday routes → Tuesday
  • Tuesday routes → Wednesday

Questions: (203) 574-6857


Emergency Shelters & Cold Weather Protocol

The city is coordinating with the state and providers to ensure shelter access.

Open 24-Hour Shelters:

  • Salvation Army — 74 Central Ave
  • Salvation Army — 625 Baldwin St
  • St. Vincent de Paul Mission — 114 Benedict St

Call 211 for shelter or warming assistance


Safety Reminders for Residents

  • Shovel sidewalks
  • Clear snow from fire hydrants
  • Check on elderly or vulnerable neighbors
  • Stay indoors during peak storm conditions

Stay Updated: Alert Waterbury

Residents are encouraged to sign up for real-time alerts:
👉 https://waterburyct.org/alerts


Final Word

City officials say they will continue monitoring conditions and issue updates as needed. Residents are asked to cooperate fully with emergency measures to ensure the safety of the entire community during what is expected to be a significant winter weather event

Waterbury Public Notices

One response to “Mayor Pernerewski Activates Emergency Operations Center as Major Winter Storm Targets Waterbury”

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