Mayor Ras J. Baraka and Health Director Ketlen Baptiste Alsbrook have officially activated a “Code Blue” for the City of Newark. The emergency alert is effective from 9 p.m. Sunday, January 11, until 8 a.m. Tuesday, January 13, 2026.
During this period, overnight temperatures in the region are expected to drop to a low of 30°F. A “Code Blue” is a Cold Weather Health Warning triggered when temperatures fall to 32°F or the wind chill factor reaches 0°F. The Health Department urges residents to take precautions against serious cold-related illnesses, especially for seniors and those with chronic health conditions.
Resources and Homeless Outreach
The Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services is operating with extended hours and increased bed capacity.
• Street Outreach: Workers are available 24/7 to reach out to unsheltered individuals and provide transport to emergency centers.
• Text for Help: If you see someone who is unsheltered and needs non-emergency services, please text “Path Home” to 855-11. This alerts outreach teams to locate and assist the individual.
• Inquiries: Contact the Office of Homeless Services at (973) 877-9481 (Mon-Fri, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.).
Know Your Rights: Newark Housing Heat Code
Under the City of Newark Housing Code, all property owners are required to supply heat from October 1 through May 1.
• Daytime (6 a.m. – 11 p.m.): Minimum inside temperature of 68°F.
• Overnight (11 p.m. – 6 a.m.): Minimum inside temperature of 65°F.
To report no heat or hot water in your residence, call the Division of Code Enforcement at (973) 733-6471.
Residents with insufficient heat can also visit local recreation centers during designated hours, including JFK Recreation Center (211 West Kinney St) and St. Peter’s Recreation Center (378 Lyons Ave).
