Code Blue Extended For Next 7 Days In Montgomery County

NORRISTOWN, PA — After weeks and weeks of moderate temperatures and a balmy Christmas Day in the 50s, it appears winter has finally arrived in eastern Pennsylvania.

Montgomery County has extended its Code Blue Cold Weather emergency declaration through Monday, Jan. 8 at 9 a.m.

A coming winter storm is slated to hit the greater Philadelphia area at around 1 p.m. on Saturday, according to the National Weather Service. Some mix of rain and snow will continue through the early part of Sunday, though it's too early to tell exactly what that mix will look like. Several inches of snow are possible.

In the meantime, low temperatures will plummet into the 20s overnight for several days.

Officials call a Code Blue "when winter conditions pose a threat of serious harm or death to individuals without shelter," allowing additional resources to be marshaled.

If you need emergency shelter, call the Your Way Home Call Center at 2-1-1. The county has the following recommendations during a Code Blue:

• Check on elderly friends and neighbors frequently to ensure that their homes are adequately heated.
• If you see someone in need of immediate emergency assistance, call or text 9-1-1.
• If you or someone you know needs help with temporary shelter from the cold weather or a longer-term housing issue, call Your Way Home at 2-1-1 or text 898-211.

Officials also advise residents to winterize their cars with antifreeze and an emergency kit, as well as limiting the time pets spend outdoors.