Newark, NJ – December 15, 2020 – Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Department of Health and Community Wellness Director Dr. Mark Wade are activating a “Code Blue” for Wednesday December 16, to Friday, December 18, 2020. “Code Blue” is called when temperatures reach 25°F, or lower without precipitation, 32°F or lower with precipitation, or a wind chill factor of 0° or lower.
“Newark is preparing for cold temperatures and snow beginning Wednesday and lasting through Friday morning. Accumulations of eight inches to 12-inches are possible with temperatures as low as 21°F. I urge our residents to take precautions to keep their homes safe and to be warm when they are out, and to check on their neighbors, especially the disabled, children, and the elderly,” said Mayor Baraka.
In addition, residents are reminded of the hazards of extremely cold weather.
“Several layers of warm clothing and protection against moisture and wind are important, even though weather may not seem to threaten cold injury. Gloves and socks should be kept as dry as possible. Insulated boots that do not obstruct circulation are essential in very cold weather. Warm head covering is particularly important, since 30 percent of heat loss is from the head,” said Dr. Wade.
The City also reminds residents that there are emergency shelters operating during the extreme cold weather that have partnered with the City to provide overnight sheltering. For more information about sheltering services, contact the shelters listed below or the Department of Health and Community Wellness, Division of Social Services at (973) 877- 9494, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
The City offers the following tips on keeping homes safe and coping with extreme winter weather:
City of Newark government buildings will be closed to the public on Wednesday, December 16 and fully closed on Thursday, December 17.
For more information on the City of Newark, please visit our website at www.newarknj.gov
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