During Code Blue, Code Red, and Code Grey, outreach teams check on people who live on the streets and in the subway more frequently. Homeless people may also stay at any Department of Homeless Services shelter or drop-in center without going through the normal intake process.
Code Blue (Including Enhanced Code Blue)
When the temperature is 32 degrees or lower, including wind chill values, the City follows Code Blue procedures from 4 PM to 8 AM.
Enhanced Code Blue is activated when:
- Continuous or accumulating precipitation (snowfall of 3 inches or more)
- Ice storms and/or freezing rain
- Temperature or wind chills below -5° F (any amount of time)
- Sustained winds of 40 mph (or higher)
- At the request of New York City Emergency Management (NYCEM) or City Hall
Code Red (Including Level 1 and Level 2)
When the temperature reaches a heat index of 90 degrees, or when an excessive heat warning is issued, the City follows Code Red procedures.
Code Grey
When the Air Quality Index (AQI) is forecast to be 201 or greater, the City follows Code Grey procedures until the AQI Advisory, Watch, or Warning has ended.
