NEW YORK (PIX11) – A Code Blue has been issued for New York and parts of New Jersey.

A snow shower is expected to hit the Big Apple as a winter storm approaches, affecting New York and extending as far as Texas, according to the National Weather Service.

More Local News

“A Code Blue is in effect until tomorrow, Thursday, January 22, at 8:00 a.m. If you see a homeless person outside in these frigid temperatures, please call us at 311,” read a social media post from NYC311.

On these nights, Department of Homeless Services policies are relaxed to ensure everyone is warm and safe, according to the Coalition for the Homeless.

A Code Blue was issued for Essex County, New Jersey, which includes 34 cities and towns.

Newark has also extended its Code Blue and expanded shelter capacity due to an incoming winter storm expected to hit the tri-state area.

“The cold temperatures and inclement winter weather put the health and safety of our homeless residents at risk. We appreciate our partner agencies opening their doors to provide a warm and safe place for those in need,” Essex County Sheriff Amir D. Jones said.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.