New York City has entered its most dangerous cold snap in nearly a decade. With wind chills plummeting as low as -10ºF and a statewide State of Emergency in effect, the Department of Social Services (DSS) has issued a Code Blue Alert across the five boroughs.
Here’s exactly what a Code Blue means, who’s most at risk, and what you should do if you–or someone you see–needs help.
What Is A Code Blue Alert?
A Code Blue is automatically triggered by the NYC Department of Social Services (DSS) when the temperature, including wind chill, is predicted to fall to 32ºF or below between 4 pm. and 8 am.
What Happens During A Code Blue?
When a Code Blue is in effect, the city activates emergency protections designed to keep people warm and alive:
- No one seeking shelter can be turned away
- Shelter suspensions are prohibited
- Anyone can enter a shelter for the night without standard intake procedures
- Outreach teams increase street patrols
- Temporary warming centers open across all five boroughs
Additionally, during Code Blue events, 311 calls about people exposed to the cold are routed directly to 911, allowing first responders to act faster.
Why Is NYC Under A Code Blue Right Now?
New York is currently enduring a prolonged and severe Arctic cold snap:
- Wind chills below zero, with exposed skin at risk of freezing in minutes
- A massive winter storm that dumped up to a foot of snow in parts of NYC
- More snow and ice possible as temperatures remain dangerously low
- A statewide State of Emergency remains in effect
Officials warn that the cold will persist through the week, and the Code Blue will remain in effect so long as the temperature and wind chill equal less than 32ºF.
Who’s Most At Risk During Cold Blue?
The most vulnerable New Yorkers include:
- People experiencing homelessness
- Older adults (65+)
- Infants and young children
- People with chronic medical conditions (especially heart or lung disease)
- Anyone without consistent heat or proper winter clothing
Homes may also lose heat more quickly, pipes are at higher risk of freezing, and icy conditions can develop overnight–especially on bridges and overpasses.
Health Risks Of Extreme Cold
Exposure to extreme cold can cause serious and sometimes life-threatening conditions, including hypothermia, frostbite, and trench foot, as well as increased risks of heart attacks, strokes, and respiratory problems.
Cold weather constricts blood vessels and strains the heart, while dry air irritates airways and skin.
What New Yorkers Should Do Right Now
To stay safe during the Code Blue, New Yorkers are urged to:
- Limit time outdoors and cover all exposed skin
- Wear at least three layers, including insulated footwear, gloves or mittens, and a hat
- Keep indoor temperatures between 64°F-75°F (and at least 68°F for seniors, infants, or those with health conditions)
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activity like shoveling if you have heart or blood pressure issues
- Stay hydrated with warm, non-caffeinated beverages
- Bring pets inside
- Check on neighbors, especially older adults
If you don’t have heat or are struggling with energy bills, contact:
NYC Warming Centers Open Across All Five Boroughs
Temporary warming centers are open citywide, including locations in the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island. These are heated indoor spaces available to anyone who needs them during extreme cold.
If you or someone you know needs a warm place to go, call 311 to find the nearest open location.
For more information on protecting yourself from the cold, visit the Department of Health’s full guide of cold weather tips.
Additional tips for preventing frostbite and hypothermia can be found in the video below.
Stay safe, New York! 🥶💙