Frigid Weather In The Forecast: Essex County Issues 'Code Blue' Alert

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Essex County has enacted a “Code Blue” alert ahead of what forecasters say will be a frigid stretch of weather this week.

The county's latest Code Blue alert is in effect from 8 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 21 to 8 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 24. The declaration is for nighttime hours only (8 p.m. to 8 a.m. each day).

Code Blue protocols are enacted when the temperature is forecasted to drop below 32 degrees or due to inclement weather. Here’s what it means for local residents, county officials explain:

“When a Code Blue is declared, a network of warming stations operated by the county and its municipalities and shelters operated by the community-based organizations will be opened. The warming stations identified include a variety of public libraries, senior centers, civic and community centers, school buildings, houses of worship, firehouses and first aid squad buildings. Warming stations are generally opened during the day and may not provide overnight accommodations. Shelters do provide overnight accommodations. In addition, shelters that regularly require occupants to leave during the day will suspend that practice so people can stay indoors.”

Get a list of participating shelters below, at www.NJ211.org or by dialing 2-1-1.

“The cold temperatures and inclement winter weather puts the health and safety of our homeless residents are risk,” Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones said.

“We thank our participating shelters and warming stations who are working with us to open their doors in these times of need,” Essex County Executive Joseph DiVincenzo Jr. said.

• See Related: Homelessness Down Slightly In Essex County, Latest Data Shows

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.