Hot Weather Alert In Newark: City Declares 'Code Red' For Wednesday

NEWARK, NJ — Newark is declaring a “Code Red” for local residents on Wednesday amid weather forecasts of stifling heat.

The city’s Code Red advisory will be in place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Aug. 28. Temperatures are expected to reach the 90’s, and the heat index is expected to reach as high as 102 degrees.

Here’s what to know about a Code Red situation in Newark, city officials say:

“A Code Red is a hot weather health warning that is usually issued in anticipation of extreme heat and humidity with periods of time when the heat index is 100 degrees or more. Such conditions have been associated with illness and/or death. Residents (specifically seniors and those with chronic health issues) should take precautions to prevent heat-related stress and exhaustion.”

Newark residents are being asked to keep an eye out for vulnerable populations, including seniors and people with chronic health problems or mental health conditions. Residents should also check on any neighbors who don’t have family or friends to do the same, officials recommended.

In addition to extreme temperatures, the air quality may be unhealthy for “sensitive populations,” officials said.

“The extreme heat and stagnant air during a heat wave increases the amount of pollution in the air,” city officials advised. “Sensitive groups including people with asthma, heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers should limit time outdoors.”

HOMELESS SHELTERS

During a Code Red, homeless shelters are activated to remain open during non-traditional hours and to expand their bed capacity, city officials said (see chart below).

People who come across an unsheltered resident in need of aid can text “Path Home” to 855-11. Street outreach teams will locate the person and offer services. Read More: Help Is A Text Message Away For People Experiencing Homelessness In Newark

For more information regarding sheltering services, contact the shelters listed below or the Office of Homeless Services at (973) 877- 9481, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

COOLING SITES/POOLS

There will be several centers and cooling sites open for Newark seniors during the Code Red (see chart below).

Not a senior? No worries: there are also recreational centers and pools that are open to all Newark residents. Read More: Summer Of 2024 In Newark (When Are Rec Centers, Pools Open?)

The City of Newark will open cooling centers in the five wards when temperatures reach extremely high temperature and humidity levels. You can find the nearest ones by calling (973) 733-4311.

SAFETY TIPS

Newark public safety officials shared the following hot weather safety tips for local residents:

• Air conditioning is the best way to stay cool when it is hot outside. However, some people do not have an air conditioner or do not turn it on when they need it. Newark residents are encouraged to use air conditioning or fans. If air conditioning is unavailable at a residence, please assist those affected to get to a place where it is available.
• Stay out of the sun. This is the quickest way to become overheated. Also, avoid extreme temperature changes.
• Wear lightweight, bright or light-colored clothing to reflect some of the sun’s energy.
• Drink fluids—water is best—even if you do not feel thirsty. Water is also the safest liquid to drink during heat emergencies. This will help your body to maintain a cooler temperature. If you are on a fluid-restricted diet or taking diuretics, please consult your physician first. Avoid beverages containing alcohol and/or caffeine.
• Eat small, frequent, meals.
• Avoid strenuous activity, especially during the sun’s peak hours, which are from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you must perform any strenuous activity, it is advisable to do it during the coolest part of the day, which is in the morning between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m.
• If possible, go to an air-conditioned building for during the hottest parts of the day.
• Cool down with a cool bath or shower.
• Cover all exposed skin with an SPF sunscreen (30 or above).
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head.
• Use extreme caution in deciding to take an infant outside during extreme heat conditions.
• Be careful not to overdress small children, especially newborns, and infants.
• Never leave children or pets in the car.

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