Health Commissioner Extends Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert Through Sunday, February 1 Due to Dangerous Conditions

BALTIMORE, MD (January 27, 2026) — The Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor has extended the Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert through Sunday, February 1 due to continued single digit temperatures, ongoing and hazardous conditions across Baltimore City.

Forecasts indicate subzero wind chills and icy road conditions, and accumulating snow that pose serious risk to public health and safety. During a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert, emergency shelters are expanded and additional outreach efforts are activated to protect residents experiencing homelessness and the City's most vulnerable residents impacted by extreme cold temperatures.

“Our priority is keeping residents safe during this severe winter storm of 2026,” said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. “City teams are working around the clock, but we ask everyone to do their part - pay attention to weather warnings, use warming centers if needed, and look out for one another.”

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. During these conditions, the risk of cold-related injuries such as frostbite and hypothermia increase, and prolonged exposure can be life-threatening.

During a Code Blue Extreme Cold alert, City agencies activate coordinated services to provide shelter and assistance for those in need, including individuals 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.

"The combination of negative temperatures, snow, and wind creates life-threatening conditions,” said Dr. Michelle Taylor, Baltimore City Health Commissioner. “We urge residents to limit their time outdoors, dress in layers, and check on elderly neighbors, children, pets, and anyone with pre-existing health conditions. No one should be left outside in this weather.”  

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.