Essex County Code Blue - Warming Centers & Shelters

Published on January 30, 2026

Essex County Extends Code Blue from January 31 Through February 7

Essex County has extended its Code Blue emergency procedures to ensure the safety of residents experiencing homelessness during continued cold and hazardous winter weather. The Code Blue declaration will remain in effect from Saturday, January 31 at 9 a.m. through Saturday, February 7 at 9 a.m., and applies 24 hours a day.

Code Blue protocols are activated when temperatures are expected to fall below 32 degrees or when severe weather conditions pose a risk to health and safety. During this period, a countywide network of shelters and warming stations will be open to provide safe, heated indoor spaces.

Participating warming stations include a range of public and community facilities such as libraries, senior centers, civic and community centers, school buildings, houses of worship, firehouses, and first aid squad buildings. Warming stations typically operate during daytime hours and may not offer overnight accommodations. Emergency shelters operated by community-based organizations will provide overnight housing. Shelters that normally require residents to leave during the day will suspend that policy during the Code Blue period so individuals can remain indoors.

A full list of participating shelters and warming stations is available at www.nj211.org or by dialing 2-1-1 for assistance.