Code Blue Extended In Burlington County As Forecast Worsens

The Code Blue Weather Emergency in Burlington County has been extended as the weather forecast becomes increasingly more grim, officials announced.

The Burlington County Health Department and Office of Emergency Management have extended the current Code Blue Weather Emergency until 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 12, due to the freezing temperatures in the forecast. County officials will assess weather conditions again on Tuesday to determine if additional precautions are needed.

New Jersey was getting a dose of the worst winter weather it's had in weeks on Monday, bringing 3 inches of snow in spots before another system makes the state a slippery mess. A new system is supposed to arrive by Monday evening that could bring snow and ice and cause power outages and messy roads. Read more here: Snow Estimates Increase As Winter Weather Advisories Expand In New Jersey.

"The National Weather Service (NWS) is forecasting more snow overnight into Tuesday, possibly 1-3" followed by sleet and rain," Moorestown police said in an alert Monday morning. "Plows will be out moving snow/salting & sanding...please give them room and stay clear. Park off street if possible. Give pedestrians a break; shovel and salt your sidewalk. Plan on extra time, slow down and arrive safely at your destination."

A Code Blue declaration is made in Burlington County when winter weather conditions pose a threat of serious harm to individuals without shelter. When a Code Blue is enacted it provides for short-term emergency shelters to those in need.

Individuals in need of shelter, or for more information about Code Blue, can call 2-1-1. Callers will be prompted to press 2-1 for homeless individuals, then asked for the first three letters of their county or county code. For Burlington County, please press 2-8-7.

During a Code Blue declaration, residents are encouraged to stay indoors in heated areas. Caution should also be taken with pets during freezing temperatures.

For general cold weather precautions, check the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website: https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/winter/.

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