SCRANTON, LACKAWANNA CO. (WOLF) — With temperatures expected to plunge into the teens, the Lackawanna County Emergency Management Agency and the City of Scranton have issued a Code Blue Frigid Weather Alert for two consecutive nights over the Thanksgiving holiday.
The first alert runs from 8 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 27, through 7 a.m. Friday, Nov. 28. A second Code Blue will be in effect from 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 28, until 7 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 29.
A Code Blue is activated when temperatures are forecast to fall below 20 degrees, triggering additional emergency measures to protect vulnerable residents, particularly individuals experiencing homelessness.
Emergency shelter will be available at two Scranton locations:
St. Anthony’s Haven, 409 Olive St., open 7 p.m. to 8 a.m.
Community Intervention Center (CIC), 445 North 6th Ave., open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with extended hours if needed.
Officials noted that the Weston Field House warming center is not yet open for the season.
Authorities are also urging residents to take precautions to stay safe during the cold snap. Drivers should ensure their vehicles are winter-ready, with antifreeze, a full tank of gas, properly inflated tires and an emergency kit. Homeowners are encouraged to check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and residents are reminded never to run generators indoors or without proper ventilation.
Officials also advise wearing appropriate layers, limiting time outdoors, and keeping pets inside. Neighbors are encouraged to check on elderly or vulnerable individuals.
Power outages should be reported directly to utility companies, not to 911. The emergency number should only be used for life-threatening situations.