The Chilean government has activated “Código Azul” across six regions to provide emergency assistance to people living on the street during a forecast of freezing temperatures. According to Minister of Social Development and Family María Jesús Wulf, the measure remains in effect from Sunday, June 21, at 5:00 p.m. until Tuesday, June 23, at 1:00 p.m.
Where is the measure active?
The government has implemented the protocol in areas where temperatures are expected to drop to 0°C or lower, or hit 5°C with the presence of rain, snow, or sleet. According to Minister Wulf, the activation covers the Metropolitan region, Los Andes and San Felipe in the Valparaíso region, Rancagua in the O’Higgins region, Talca and Curicó in the Maule region, Chillán in the Ñuble region, and Los Ángeles in the Bío Bío region.
What is Código Azul?
Código Azul serves as a specialized reinforcement of the existing “Plan Protege Calle” network. It is designed to mitigate the risks faced by vulnerable populations during extreme winter conditions. The initiative operates by providing enhanced outreach and support services specifically during periods of hazardous cold weather, as defined by the Ministry of Social Development and Family.
The Código Azul protocol is triggered specifically when weather conditions reach or fall below 0°C, or when temperatures reach 5°C combined with precipitation, snow, or sleet, ensuring resources are deployed only during the most critical cold windows.
Expert Insight: The Stakes of Winter Preparedness
Expert Insight: The activation of emergency protocols like Código Azul highlights the reliance on rapid-response social infrastructure during the Chilean winter. By concentrating resources in specific regions, the government aims to prevent cold-related health crises among those without shelter. The effectiveness of this measure depends heavily on the coordination between state services and public reporting of individuals in need.
How to request assistance
Authorities have directed the public to report individuals who may be at risk due to the cold. According to the Ministry of Social Development and Family, citizens should contact the “Fono Calle” at 800 104 777, selecting option 0. The service operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
What may happen next
If temperatures remain at or below the established thresholds beyond the Tuesday deadline, the government may choose to extend the activation of Código Azul. Future updates will depend on weather forecasts provided by meteorological services and the ongoing evaluation of the needs of the homeless population in the affected regions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of Código Azul?
It is a reinforcement of the network for people in street situations, activated during extreme cold to provide life-saving support.
When does the current activation end?
The measure is set to expire on Tuesday, June 23, at 1:00 p.m.
How can I help a person in need?
You can call the Fono Calle at 800 104 777, option 0, which is available 24/7 to report individuals at risk.
What steps are you taking to prepare your own household for these unusually low temperatures?
