PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
February 22, 2026
Contact:
Jennifer Rose
Press Secretary, Office of Mayor Paul K. Pernerewski, Jr.
Email: Jrose@waterburyct.org
Mayor Pernerewski Activates Emergency Operations Center- Waterbury Storm Preparations
(WATERBURY, CT) – Mayor Paul K. Pernerewski, Jr. announced that the City of Waterbury will activate its Emergency Operations Center at 5:00 PM tonight as a major winter storm brings heavy snow and strong winds to the region.
Updated Storm Forecast
Waterbury is expected to receive 12–24 inches of snow, with the heaviest snowfall overnight into Monday morning. Strong east-northeast winds, gusting up to 55–65 MPH, may create blowing and drifting snow, near whiteout conditions, and scattered power outages. Residents should prepare for hazardous travel and difficult conditions throughout the storm.
Emergency Operations Center Activation
The City’s Emergency Operations Center will open at 5:00 PM tonight to coordinate storm response, monitor conditions, and manage public safety resources. Residents may call 311 or (203) 597-3444 for storm-related concerns or non-emergency assistance. The Department of Public Works has sufficient supplies of salt, sand, fuel, and equipment to maintain continuous operations.
Mayor Pernerewski stated:
"Our city crews and first responders are ready to face this storm, and I want to thank them for their dedication. We urge all residents to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary. Your safety is our top priority."
Citywide Snow Parking Ban
A citywide snow parking ban begins Sunday, February 22 at 1:00 PM and will remain in effect until further notice. In addition to all posted Snow Zones, there will be no parking on the odd-numbered side of streets. Vehicles must be moved to the even-numbered side, private driveways, or municipal garages to allow plows to clear streets curb to curb. Violations may result in tickets or towing.
Free municipal garages:
- Scovill Street Garage, 33 Scovill Street
- Buckingham Garage, 210 Bank Street
Residents are strongly urged to remain off the roads during the height of the storm unless travel is essential.
School and Municipal Closures
Waterbury Public Schools will be closed Monday, February 23, 2026. All after-school activities and community school events are canceled until further notice. We will continue to monitor the weather and provide updates regarding Tuesday’s schedule as soon as possible.
Mayor Pernerewski is announcing that City of Waterbury offices will be closed Monday, February 23 for non-essential employees due to the ongoing winter storm.
Road conditions are expected to become hazardous, and the safety of city employees and residents remains the administration’s highest priority.
Essential employees should report as directed by their department heads.
Refuse and Recycling Schedule Changes
- No collection on Monday, February 23, 2026
- Monday collections moved to Tuesday, February 24
- Tuesday collections moved to Wednesday, February 25
Questions may be directed to the Bureau of Refuse at (203) 574-6857.
Severe Cold Weather Protocol and Emergency Shelters
The city is coordinating with the State and local providers to ensure shelter access for vulnerable residents. Open 24-hour shelters:
- Salvation Army, 74 Central Avenue
- Salvation Army, 625 Baldwin Street
- St. Vincent de Paul Mission Shelter, 114 Benedict Street
Residents needing shelter or warming assistance are encouraged to call 211.
Safety Reminders
Residents should shovel sidewalks, clear snow from fire hydrants, and check on neighbors, especially the elderly or vulnerable. Everyone is strongly urged to stay off the roads unless travel is absolutely necessary.
Stay Informed: Alert Waterbury
Sign up for real-time updates on parking bans, road conditions, closures, and public safety at https://waterburyct.org/alerts.
City officials will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary. The city thanks all residents for their cooperation and all staff for their dedication during this significant winter weather event.