Frigid Forecast Leads To Code Blue Declaration In Montco

NORRISTOWN, PA — With temperatures possibly headed for the single digits, a Code Blue Cold Weather Emergency has been declared for Montgomery County.

The declaration is in effect from Monday afternoon through Friday, Dec. 29 at 10 a.m. Code Blue is reserved for when the wind chill is expected to dip below 20 degrees and conditions "pose a threat of serious harm or death to individuals without shelter."

Temperatures will drop to the teens on Tuesday and could go as low as 10 or 11 degrees on Wednesday and Thursday night, with the wind chill threatening zero degrees. Snow and flurries are possible on Friday and Saturday, and even colder weather is in the long range forecast from early next week.

Residents of Montgomery County who need shelter during a Code Blue can go to the Coordinated Homeless Outreach Center (CHOC) in Building 53 at the Norristown State Hospital grounds. If needed, transportation will be provided. The CHOC is a 50-bed shelter for single residents. The phone number for the CHOC is 610-292-9244. Families are sheltered at the Salvation Army in Norristown or Pottstown.

Related resources, courtesy of Montgomery County:

• Coordinated Homeless Outreach Center (CHOC)
• Emergency Preparedness and Response - Winter Weather (CDC)
• National Weather Service - Winter Safety
• The Salvation Army of Norristown
• The Salvation Army of Pottstown

Patch file photo