Code Purple is a term used by many cities across the United States to indicate extreme cold weather conditions that pose a risk to the health and safety of homeless individuals.
When a Code Purple is declared, shelters and warming centers open their doors to provide temporary housing and resources for those who are experiencing homelessness. This is done to protect people from the dangers of hypothermia, frostbite, and other cold-related illnesses.
The specific temperature threshold that triggers a Code Purple varies from city to city, but it is generally below a certain point, often in the teens or single digits.
Here are some examples of how Code Purple works in different cities:
- Washington, D.C.: The District of Columbia's Department of Human Services declares a Code Purple when the temperature is expected to drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or when there is a wind chill below 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Chicago, Illinois: The City of Chicago activates a Code Purple when the temperature is expected to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or when there is a wind chill below 15 degrees Fahrenheit.
- New York City, New York: The City of New York typically activates a Code Purple when the temperature is expected to be below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
Code Purple is a vital safety measure that can save lives. It ensures that vulnerable individuals have access to shelter and resources during extreme weather events.
