Philadelphia Declares Code Red Heat Emergency Through Thursday

PHILADELPHIA — With sweltering temperatures in Philadelphia's forecast, the city will enact a Code Red heat emergency Monday afternoon.

The Philadelphia Department of Public health said the Code Red status will go into effect at 2 p.m. Monday due to the National Weather Service predicting a heat index of 95 degrees or higher.

As the heat index is predicted to last three or more consecutive days, the Code Red will end at 8 p.m. Thursday.

During a Code Red, Philadelphia are urged to call the outreach team at 215-232-1984 if you see someone on the street who needs help and to call 911 if there is a medical emergency.

Additionally, fines of $500 or more can be issued for dog owners who do not provide their pets shade during Code Red emergencies. To a dog left outdoors in very hot weather, call the Animal Care & Control Team (ACCTPhilly) at 267-385-3800 or submit a report online here.

The city has cooling centers, spraygrounds, schools, and cooling buses throughout the city where residents can escape the heat. Find the closest cooling spot near you here.