'Code Blue' Issued Through Weekend In Morris Co. As Temperatures Drop

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — As the severe cold settles in for the weekend, Morris County has declared a Code Blue that will last until Monday morning.

Temperatures are expected to fall this week, especially on Friday and Saturday. Due to the wind, temperatures will drop into the single digits, with a low of six degrees expected on Friday. Wind gusts of up to 40 mph are expected on Friday afternoon, according to forecasters.

Anticipated wind chill will also cause temperatures to drop into the negatives, reaching -12 on Friday night, according to the National Weather Service.

The county issues a "Code Blue" declaration when temperatures are forecast to drop below 20 degrees for two or more consecutive days. In the event of high temperatures, a "Code Blue" may be issued, with consideration given to wind chill, precipitation and other factors.

The Morris County Office of Temporary Assistance can help with temporary shelter assistance, warming center assistance, rental assistance and utility assistance.

During business hours, many public libraries, shopping malls and senior centers serve as warming centers. These locations are intended to serve as temporary locations for a person to warm up, not as a shelter.

Here are some tips from the Morristown Department of Public Safety on how to keep homes safe and cope with extreme winter weather:

• Check all windows and doors for drafts.
• Do not leave space heaters unattended.
• Do not use generators indoors.
• Let cold water drip from your faucet to prevent pipe freezes
• Have a “kid-free zone” around open fires and space heaters.
• Never use your oven to warm up your home.

Additional after-hours and overnight warming centers will be listed for public viewing here.