The Waterbury Times|Breaking News|Published June 11, 2026

WATERBURY — Waterbury Public Schools will implement an early dismissal on Friday, June 12, as high temperatures and an elevated heat index are expected to impact the region.

School officials announced the decision Thursday, noting that forecasts indicate conditions on Friday will be even warmer than those experienced today.

The early dismissal comes as city officials prepare for a stretch of extreme heat expected to continue through the weekend.

Mayor Paul Pernerewski announced that the City of Waterbury will open a designated cooling center and make additional recreational facilities available to residents seeking relief from the heat.

“We encourage residents to take precautions during this period of extreme heat,” Pernerewski said. “Please stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, check on elderly neighbors and family members, and never leave children or pets unattended in vehicles.”

The city’s cooling center will be located at the North End Recreation Center, 262 North Main St., and will operate Friday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Residents without access to air conditioning are encouraged to visit the cooling center or other air-conditioned public spaces.

Splash Pads Open Across City

The city’s splash pads will remain open daily from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the following locations:

• Town Plot Park
• River Baldwin Park
• Fairlawn Park
• Washington Park
• Curtin Park
• East Mountain Park
• Chase Park
• Rivera Hughes Park
• Waterville Park
• Berkley Park
• Hopeville Park
• Martin Luther King Jr. Park
• Fulton Park
• Bucks Hill Park
• North End Recreation Center
• Lower Murray Park
• Hamilton Park

Hamilton Park Pool Opens for Weekend

Hamilton Park Pool, located at 110 Hamilton Road, will be open Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

City officials noted that registration and appointments are required through the Parks and Recreation Department.

Residents are encouraged to drink plenty of water, wear lightweight clothing, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and regularly check on older adults, young children, and individuals with chronic medical conditions who may be more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.

For additional information, residents can visit the city’s website or call 3-1-1.