CONNECTICUT — Sweltering temperatures drove thousands to Connecticut’s state parks and beaches this weekend, forcing several popular destinations to close after reaching full capacity amid the state’s first major heat wave of the summer.
Parks Hit Capacity as Residents Seek Relief
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As temperatures soared into the mid-90s on Sunday, parking lots at state parks and beaches filled rapidly, prompting closures by early afternoon. Among the affected locations was Millers Pond State Park in Durham, which shut its gates after reaching maximum occupancy.
The surge in visitors came as Connecticut braced for an extended stretch of extreme heat, with advisories in effect through midweek. At Rocky Neck State Park in East Lyme, beachgoers faced packed shorelines and scarce parking, while Harkness Memorial State Park in Waterford offered a quieter retreat with shaded areas for those looking to escape the crowds.
Heat Wave Prompts Safety Warnings
With heat indices climbing past 100°F, officials urged residents to take precautions, especially the elderly, young children, and those with health conditions. Governor Ned Lamont activated the state’s Extreme Hot Weather Protocol, opening cooling centers across Connecticut. Locations can be found by calling 2-1-1 or checking local government websites.
The National Weather Service emphasized that extreme heat remains one of the deadliest weather hazards, with risks including heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Symptoms such as dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and nausea have already led to hospitalizations in nearby states.
What’s Next?
As the heat wave continues, officials expect high demand for cooling spaces to persist. Residents are advised to:
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Arrive early to secure parking at state parks.
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Stay hydrated and limit outdoor activity during peak heat hours.
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Check for closures before heading out, as more sites may reach capacity.
For real-time updates on park availability and cooling centers, visit the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) website or follow local news alerts.
This story is based on official reports and eyewitness accounts. For further details, refer to the original coverage at The Register Citizen.
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