From November through April, New York State follows a Code Blue program.
Code Blue is a New York State-mandated program that provides funding for counties to provide shelter during the cold weather months when temperatures are 32°F or below with wind chill. The program has historically run from November to April. A warming center to provide temporary relief from extreme winter weather will also be available during the Code Blue program season.
If someone needs shelter or anticipates a need, they should contact their local Department of Social Services. The department will work with them to create a plan of action during a Code Blue.
When is a Code Blue called?
- National Weather Service (NWS) predicts steady or consistent precipitation between the hours of 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.; or
- Snowfall is greater than six inches; or
- Temperatures are below 15 F for a 48-hour period; or
- Wind chills are below 00 F; or
- There are sustained winds of more than 40 miles per hour; or
- There are ice storms and/or freezing rain.
For a better understanding of Code Blue, review the Department of Homelessness Code Blue Procedure document.