Newark Issues Code Red As Heat Wave Nears (Here’s What It Means)

NEWARK, NJ — Newark city officials have issued a “Code Red” in the face of an expected heat wave that may last through the weekend.

On Wednesday, Mayor Ras Baraka and Department of Health and Community Wellness Director Mark Wade released an “excessive heat warning” and activated a “Code Red” for the city’s residents.

Code Red alerts are issued when the daytime heat index is expected to reach between 100 and 105-degrees Fahrenheit for three hours or more.

Weather forecasters are calling for the heat wave to last until Sunday, July 22, with a heat index expected to hit 107 degrees on Saturday and 105 degrees on Sunday

The Health Department urged Newark residents to take precautions to prevent serious illness that can result from the heat, especially among vulnerable individuals such as seniors and those with chronic health problems or mental health conditions.

City officials said:

“Newark residents should drink water at regular intervals, use air conditioning to stay cool, go to a place that has air conditioning if it is not available at home and limit strenuous activity. People experiencing homelessness are welcome to go to the Help Center located at 224 Sussex Avenue for relief from the heat through the weekend while this code red alert is in effect.”

Officials said people should call 911 if they or someone you know begins exhibiting two or more of the following symptoms:

• Hot dry skin OR cold clammy skin
• Trouble breathing
• Rapid heartbeat
• Confusion, disorientation, or dizziness
• Nausea and vomiting

“Residents are advised to check in on vulnerable friends, family members and neighbors to help them stay cool.” Baraka said.

City officials provided the following list of places to cool down in Newark (click image to enlarge).

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