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Baltimore City Faces First Code Blue Alert of Winter
13 Dec
Summary
- Baltimore City Health Department issued its first Code Blue alert of winter.
- Temperatures are expected to plummet to 13 degrees starting Sunday.
- The alert warns of risks like hypothermia and frostbite from prolonged cold.
The Baltimore City Health Department has declared its initial Code Blue warning for the 2025 winter season, signaling a period of dangerous cold. Beginning Sunday, December 14, and extending through Monday, December 15, temperatures are forecast to fall to 13 degrees Fahrenheit and remain in the teens. This alert is issued due to the heightened risk of cold-related injuries such as hypothermia and frostbite, which can rapidly affect individuals exposed to sub-freezing conditions for extended durations.
Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor emphasized the potential severity of extreme cold, noting its dangers for vulnerable populations like older adults, infants, and those with chronic health issues. Residents are strongly advised to remain indoors whenever possible, wear layered clothing, and contact 211 for information on available shelters and assistance. This proactive measure follows Maryland's report of its first cold-related death for the 2025-26 winter season in late November.
Last winter season, Maryland recorded 67 cold-related deaths, a slight decrease from the previous year's 70 but an increase from 45 in the 2022 season. The Baltimore City Health Department encourages citizens to follow safety tips, which include keeping space heaters away from flammable items and ensuring carbon monoxide detectors are functional. Further precautionary advice is available on the Baltimore City Health Department's website.
