ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Monroe County is issuing a Code Blue due to the incoming severe cold.

County Executive Adam Bello is reminding residents to use caution as forecasts predict sub-zero wind chills through Saturday morning.

Code Blue is activated when overnight temperatures fall to 32 degrees or lower.

“While extreme cold is nothing new for us, it’s always important to take this weather seriously,” Bello said in a statement. “The current forecast calls for wind chills as low as 24 degrees below zero. Uncovered skin can suffer frostbite in as little as 30 minutes under these conditions – so please be careful, bundle up when leaving the house, bring your pets inside and check on your vulnerable neighbors.” 

Officials say its outreach teams will work with homeless individuals to ensure shelter, transportation and meals.

In the city of Rochester, a 24-hour warming center is available at the Open Door Mission on West Main Street.

Libraries and R-Centers are also serving as warming centers with activities available for kids as the Rochester City School District is closed on Friday.