Arctic Blast Prompts 'Code Blue' in Union County

Winter has finally arrived and it has arrived in full force.

With temperatures plummeting Union County has declared a Code Blue for today and Tuesday, Jan. 5, to assist emergency shelters in preparing for increased demand.

The Weather Channel says temperatures will dip to the low teens Monday night and stay cold Tuesday, with a high in around 32 and overnight lows in the upper teens.

Milder air returns Wednesday with a high in the upper 30s, with overnight lows in the 20s. Thursday, temperatures will hit the mid 40s are predicted throughout the region.

In light of the colder weather, Union County is preparing emergency shelters tonight and tomorrow night for those in need.

Persons who anticipate needing emergency shelter need to be screened and placed by the Union County Department of Human Services – Division of Social Services, by coming to either one of the agency’s two offices before 4 p.m.:

Elizabeth Location
343 Westminster Avenue, Elizabeth 07207

Plainfield Location
200 West 2nd Street, Plainfield 07063

For overnight emergencies only after 4 p.m., persons in need of assistance may call the Plainfield Area YMCA, 908-756-6061.

Residents who observe anyone outdoors who is asleep or in need of help should contact their local police department, which will arrange for assistance.