Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert Goes into Effect Wednesday Night Through Monday, February 9

PRESS RELEASE

Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert Goes into Effect 
Wednesday Night Through Monday, February 9 

BALTIMORE, MD (February 4, 2026) — Due to a significant drop in overnight temperatures, the Baltimore City Health Department will activate a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert beginning Wednesday night through Monday, February 9 to protect residents from dangerous cold weather conditions.  

A Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert is declared when forecasted temperatures, including wind chill, are expected to fall below 13 degrees, or when conditions are severe enough to create a significant risk to someone’s health. Forecasts indicate that overnight temperatures will dip to dangerously low levels making conditions even more hazardous, particularly during nighttime and early morning hours. These conditions pose serious health risks, including hypothermia and frostbite, especially for individuals experiencing homelessness, older adults, young children, and those with chronic health conditions.  

“Extreme cold can be life-threatening, especially overnight when temperatures drop immensely,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “We recognize that not everyone has the option to stay indoors, and we want those residents to know that help is available. Our priority is ensuring everyone has access to a warm and safe place, and support during this dangerous stretch of weather.  

During a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert, all emergency shelters are open and expanded outreach efforts are implemented to safeguard residents experiencing homelessness and the City's most vulnerable residents impacted by extreme cold.  

“Prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can quickly lead to serious health emergencies,” said Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor. “We urge residents to limit their time outdoors, when possible, dress in layers, and seek warm shelter. For those who must be outside, please know that outreach teams and resources are available –and we are committed to helping keep you safe.”  

During a Code Blue Extreme Cold alert, City agencies activate coordinated services to provide shelter and assistance to individuals in need, including those experiencing homelessness. Throughout the Code Blue Extreme Cold season, agencies work together to:  

• Distribute meals to at-risk older adults
• Provide home weatherization services
• Assist residents with applying for energy assistance
• Expand cold-weather education and outreach efforts 

As part of the City’s FY 2026 Winter Shelter & Code Purple Plan, the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services (MOHS) offers emergency shelter to individual adults, couples, and families throughout the Code Blue Extreme Cold season. Individuals seeking shelter should call the Baltimore City Shelter Hotline at 443-984-9540. 

Cold Weather Tips for Staying Healthy: 

• Wear multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing
• Always wear a head covering, like a hat and/or scarf, when outdoors
• Drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcoholic beverages
• Walk slowly and avoid steps or curbs with ice to protect yourself against falls in icy or snowy conditions
• Check on the most vulnerable, including infants and children, older adults, and the chronically ill
• If your pet is outdoors, they must be protected by a well-constructed, raised shelter that is dry and draft-free. Sufficient bedding and a door flap must be in place to maintain body heat. Fresh, unfrozen, drinkable water must be provided at all times   

Other Tips for Keeping Safe in Cold Weather:  

• Keep space heaters and candles away from flammable materials, such as curtains, furniture, and loose clothing
• Check your carbon monoxide detector and make sure it’s working
• Do not use prohibited heat or power sources inside your home, such as stoves or generators. They may cause fire or carbon monoxide poisoning
• Do not leave your car running in a closed space like a garage 

BCHD recommends keeping infants and children safe: 

• In colder weather, babies can be dressed in a wearable blanket or one-piece pajama. For an extra layer of warmth, add a onesie or undershirt
• When inside, dress your baby in the same number of layers that you are wearing. If you are comfortable in a room, your baby is too
• Avoid covering babies with blankets and comforters which can suffocate a baby
• Do not put hats or head coverings on babies during sleep. Hats can cause babies to overheat
• The room that a baby is sleeping in should be at a temperature comfortable for a lightly clothed adult
• Babies should sleep:
   
  • Alone (not in bed with you or anyone else)
  • On their back
  • In a crib or bassinet with nothing else in it—no pillows, blankets, or stuffed animals
  • In a smoke-free space (no cigarettes, marijuana, or vaping near your baby) 

During the winter season, several services are available to eligible residents to assist with energy expenses. Residents can call 410-396-5555 or visit the Energy Assistance Program website for more information on energy assistance. Older residents or caregivers can call Maryland Access Point at 410-396-CARE (2273) for assistance completing and mailing energy assistance applications. The Weatherization Assistance Program helps reduce energy expenses by installing energy conservation materials and products in a resident’s home. To check your eligibility for this free service, visit the Weatherization Assistance Program’s website or call 410-396-3023.  

The Maryland Department of Health, Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, has reported 5 cold-related deaths in Baltimore City so far this Code Blue Extreme Cold season. 

For more information about Baltimore City’s Code Blue Extreme Cold Plan, visit the Health Department’s website.  

For other cold-related inquiries and service requests, or to find a nearby homeless shelter, residents can call 311 or 211.  

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