Using Probabilistic Data For Sheltering Decision on Possible Code Blue Days in Allegheny County Pennsylvania

Code Blue days, established to activate warming shelters for the homeless, are declared by Allegheny County, Pennsylvania’s Department of Health and Human Services when the air temperature is forecast by the National Weather Service to fall below 26 degrees Fahrenheit between 4:00 PM and 8:00 AM local time. The plan can also be enacted when the City of Pittsburgh’s Office of Emergency Management activates the Emergency Operations Center in response to cold weather conditions for vulnerable populations. During such days, county, city, and local homeless shelter staff are mobilized preemptively to provide support.

This presentation focuses on the use of probabilistic temperature forecasts by key decision-makers to stage resources and prepare for potential Code Blue days up to ten days in advance. It will highlight the impact of Decision Support Services provided by the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh on the decision-making process.