Health Commissioner Declares Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for Wednesday, July 15th and Thursday, July 16th

BALTIMORE, MD (Tuesday, July 14, 2026)— With temperatures expected to rise in the Baltimore region and the heat index forecasted to reach over 105 degrees Fahrenheit on Wednesday and Thursday, Dr. Michelle Taylor, Baltimore City Commissioner of Health, has declared a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for Wednesday, July 15, 2026 through Thursday, July 16, 2026. The heat index is a measure of air temperature and relative humidity that indicates how hot it feels to the human body. Heat persisting for consecutive days increases the potential for health impacts associated with prolonged heat exposure, particularly among vulnerable populations who may not yet be acclimated to seasonal heat conditions.

“As temperatures climb, we all have a role to play in protecting ourselves and one another,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “Planning ahead for extreme heat, checking in on neighbors and loved ones, and knowing where to find relief can make a lifesaving difference. By taking these precautions, we keep Baltimore City safe throughout the hottest days of the summer.”

The Health Commissioner may declare a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert during periods of heat that are severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable Baltimore residents. Once a Code Red Extreme Heat declaration is made, activities are undertaken to encourage safety. Even on days when a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is not declared, it is important to take precautions.   

To protect the City’s workforce, residential trash and recycling collection will begin at 5:00 a.m. during the heat emergency so that our solid waste crews can complete their routes during the cooler hours of the day. Residents are encouraged to place materials at the curb the night before collection. 

“Extreme heat is a dangerous weather-related hazard, and a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is a signal for everyone to take the risks seriously,” said Dr. Michelle Taylor, Commissioner of Health. “As temperatures rise, it's important to stay hydrated, limit time outdoors during the hottest parts of the day, and check on family, friends, and neighbors who may be more vulnerable. Older adults, young children, pregnant people, people with chronic medical conditions, outdoor workers, and those without access to air conditioning are at the greatest risk for heat-related illness.”

The Maryland Department of Health’s Office of the Chief Medical Examiner has reported two heat-related deaths in Baltimore City for 2026. 

Check this interactive dashboard to see all cooling centers that will be activated for the Code Red Extreme Heat Declaration.

The following cooling centers will be activated for the Code Red Extreme Heat Declaration on Wednesday, July 15. All facilities have free Wi-Fi unless indicated.

*Do NOT have Wi-Fi available 

The following cooling centers will be activated for the Code Red Extreme Heat Declaration on Thursday, July 16. All facilities have free Wi-Fi unless indicated.

*Do NOT have Wi-Fi available 

Residents seeking relief from the heat can also visit Enoch Pratt Free Library locations.  

The Baltimore City Health Department recommends during times of heat that city residents: 

• Stay Hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, before feeling thirsty 
• Avoid direct sun and peak hours. Stay indoors between 10am and 4pm, if possible. Stay in the shade when outdoors
• Plan travel and appointments during cooler times. Schedule appointments in the morning or evening when it’s cooler
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, breathable clothing
• Rest often and avoid heavy activity
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Seek relief from the heat in air-conditioned locations
• Take a cool shower or place a cool, damp washcloth around your neck or wrists. Avoid using fans in closed rooms or rooms with temperatures in the mid-90s or higher
• Check on older adults and the sick in your community who may need help in the heat 

BCHD recommends keeping infants and children safe:  

• Never leave your child alone in the car.  Even for a few minutes, a car can heat up fast and become very dangerous
• Do not cover strollers with blankets. Even light covers can trap heat and make it too hot for your baby
• Make sure your baby sleeps safe
• Babies can get too hot while sleeping, especially in summer. Getting too hot can raise the risk of sleep-related infant death. 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)
  • Always leave your baby’s head uncovered during sleep. Hats or hoods can cause overheating
  • Dress your baby in light sleep clothes. A good rule of thumb: dress them in the same number of layers you’d wear to sleep
  • Don’t wear blankets or thick sleepwear. If you’re worried about your baby getting cold, you can use a lightweight sleep sack instead of a blanket
  • Keep the room cool and let in fresh air if you can. A fan can help move air around the room- just don’t point it directly at your baby
  • If your baby wakes up hot and fussy, try using a cool, damp washcloth to gently wipe them down. That can help them cool off and settle back to sleep
  • Pregnancy can make you more likely to get sick on very hot days. Heat exposure may also be dangerous for your developing baby. Your body must work harder to cool both you and your developing baby

BCHD recommends keeping persons safe while using substances: 

• People using substances are at high risk for dehydration, heat stroke, and accidental overdose
• Extreme heat can cause significant stress on the cardiovascular system, using substances can increase risk of heart-related emergencies
• Alcohol and various substances can lead to rapid fluid loss increasing heat-related illness or death. 

Watch out for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Seek medical help immediately if these symptoms occur: 

• Confusion
• Nausea
• Lightheadedness or headache
• High body temperature with cool and clammy skin
• Hot, dry, flushed skin
• Rapid or slowed heartbeat and breathing  

BCHD also recommends keeping pets safe: 

• Never leave your pets in a parked car. Keep them safe and leave them at home. Temperatures inside a vehicle can rise extremely quickly. Even on a 70-degree day, the inside of a car can rise to a deadly 110 degrees
• Provide ample shade and water. Anytime your pet is outside, make sure he or she has protection from heat and sun and plenty of fresh, cold water
• Limit exercise on hot days to early morning or evening hours. Asphalt gets very hot and can burn your pet’s paws, so walk your dog on grass if possible
• Watch for signs of heatstroke. These include heavy panting, difficulty breathing, excessive thirst, vomiting, unable to get up, and a deep red or purple tongue. If you see signs of heatstroke, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately 

Additional steps to prepare your home if you don’t have air conditioning:   

• Cover windows that receive morning or afternoon sun with drapes, shades, or awnings
• Considering making temporary window reflectors, such as aluminum foil-covered cardboard, to place between windows and drapes
• With temperatures starting to climb, consider readying your household for summer by purchasing a window air conditioner and insulation
• Take a cool bath and stay hydrated when temperatures increase indoors.   

City residents who want cooling center information on Code Red Extreme Heat Alert days can call 311. Individuals having a heat-related medical emergency or who are experiencing signs of heat exhaustion or heat stroke should call 911. 

For more information on declared Code Red Extreme Heat Alert days, visit the Baltimore City Health Department’s website and on social media: Facebook @BaltimoreHealth and Instagram @Baltimorehealth. Additional information may also be found via the Baltimore City 311 line, and with local news media.