The Montgomery County Commissioners, on the advice of the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Public Health (OPH), have declared a "Code Red" Hot Weather Emergency for Montgomery County based on a review of forecasts from the National Weather Service. The "Code Red" declaration issued for Montgomery County is in effect from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day through Wednesday, June 25, 2025,
A Code Red Hot Weather Emergency is declared when the temperature or heat index is expected to be at or above 100°F for two hours or more. Extreme heat can cause illnesses including rash, cramps, exhaustion, and heat stroke. It can even cause death.
Extreme heat can be especially dangerous to:
- Lower income households
- Individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness
- Rural communities
- Residents in urbanized areas
- Infants and children
- Older adults
- Laborers
- People with chronic medical conditions
- Those who take certain medications
- Athletes
Friends, relatives, or neighbors should check on people who may be at risk. Seek medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness, including muscle cramps, headache, nausea, or vomiting.
For 24/7 information about crisis resources for utilities, food resources, and more, call 2-1-1. For housing resources and access to the Your Way Home crisis response system, call 610-278-3522.
During a Code Red Emergency, extreme heat cooling programs for all residents in need are available at 70+ sites in the region. Find a resource near you by visiting the PA 2-1-1 website.
CODE RED HELP FOR VULNERABLE RESIDENTS
The County provides additional services during Code Red Hot Weather Emergencies for vulnerable populations such as:
- Those experiencing unsheltered homelessness: The Office of Housing and Community Development sends an alert to all Your Way Home providers. Street outreach teams and daytime homeless service programs provide water, cooling kits, and local cooling resources.
- Older Adults: Montgomery County Office of Aging maintains a list of weather-sensitive older adult clients who are contacted by a case manager during heat emergencies to provide guidance or assistance accessing cooling resources.
HELPFUL TIPS
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages.
- Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
- If at all possible, try to get outdoor work completed in the morning to avoid the warmest part of the day.
- Keep windows and interior doors open when running a fan at home.
- Keep cool by seeking an air-conditioned building, such as a mall, library, or senior center if available. If not, seek rest in the shade.
