Mayor Brandon M. Scott Outlines Severe Cold and Winter Weather Preparation for Baltimore City

 

BALTIMORE, MD (November 9, 2026) – Today, Mayor Brandon M. Scott was joined by Baltimore City leaders from the Department of Transportation (DOT), Baltimore City Health Department (BCHD), Department of Public Works (DPW), Baltimore City Fire Department (BCFD), Recreation and Parks (BCRP), Department of General Services (DGS), Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD), the Office of Emergency Management (OEM), the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services (MOHS), and Baltimore City Information Technology (BCIT) to announce a whole-of-government approach to severe cold and winter weather preparations.

«Last year, we had a historically bad winter, and while we hope for better weather this year, we all have to do our part to ensure we’re ready for whatever this season brings,» said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. «City agencies are working around the clock to prepare, and I encourage residents to begin your own preparations. Make a plan for severe weather, stay informed- including by signing up for BMORE Alert, and check on neighbors who may need assistance as the weather gets colder.»

BCHD and MOHS announced that the 2026–2027 Code Blue Extreme Cold and Winter Shelter Code Purple seasons will begin on Sunday, November 15, 2026.

From November 15 through March 15, 2027, BCHD, MOHS, and City and community partners will work together to prevent cold-related illness and death, with a focus on residents experiencing homelessness, older adults, pregnant people, and others at highest risk.

Extreme cold is dangerous, and cold-related deaths are preventable. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures and wind can cause frostbite, hypothermia, and in severe cases, death. Residents can protect themselves and their neighbors by knowing the risks, preparing their homes, and reaching out for help early.

Code Blue and Cold Purple declarations are activated at different temperature and weather thresholds, though they may also be declared concurrently.

Winter Shelter Code Purple Activation

The Director of the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services will declare a Code Purple Activation when temperatures, including wind chill, are forecasted to reach 32°F or below.

The Code Purple Plan outlines MOHS’ role in the coordination of efforts between the City of Baltimore and providers in the Baltimore City Continuum of Care (CoC) to provide hypothermia shelters and vital, lifesaving services for Baltimore residents in need, including those experiencing homelessness during the winter season. MOHS will announce each alert on the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services website, on its social media channels, and through local news outlets.

«As the colder weather sets in, we are once again reminded of our vital mission to ensure every resident, especially those experiencing or at risk of homelessness has access to warm, safe shelter, and life-saving resources,» said MOHS Executive Director Ernestina Simmons. «We remain deeply grateful to our dedicated shelter providers, staff, and community partners whose steadfast commitment year after year ensures that no one is left out in the cold.»

Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert

The Health Commissioner will declare a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert when:

• Temperatures, including wind chill, are expected to be 13 °F or below. This threshold can be reached when the temperature is at or below 20 °F with 5 mph sustained winds, or at or below 25 °F with 15 mph sustained winds.
• Other conditions present a substantial threat to life or health. These include strong winds, an extended period of cold, or a sudden cold snap after a warm period. The Health Commissioner may determine if weather is severe enough to endanger vulnerable residents.

A Code Blue Extreme Cold alert signals an increased risk of cold-related injuries, including frostbite and hypothermia, for anyone exposed to the cold for an extended period. BCHD will announce each alert on their website, social media channels, and through local news outlets.

In addition to warming centers, residents in need can get connected to overnight emergency shelter by calling the Baltimore City Shelter Hotline at 443-984-9540. Participating winter shelter locations will provide accommodations from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 a.m. the next morning.

«Cold-related deaths are preventable, and preventing them takes all of us,» said Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor. «Through Code Blue, City agencies and our community partners coordinate shelter, outreach, meals, and home energy support so every resident can get to warmth and safety. We urge everyone to take precautions, stay indoors when possible, and check on neighbors who may need help.»

Snow and Winter Weather Preparations

During winter weather events, the Snow Team coordinates across City agencies to support the allocation of resources and services to protect residents and maintain critical operations during severe weather.

The City of Baltimore’s Snow Team includes personnel from DOT, DPW, BCRP, and DGS. The City is prepared to respond to snow and ice events with approximately 294 pieces of City equipment supported by 300 pieces of contractor equipment. Baltimore is also fully stocked with more than 15,000 tons of salt, and maintains a 36,000-gallon salt brine capacity to pretreat major roadways and critical transportation corridors.

During winter storms, residents are urged to remain at home and avoid unnecessary travel. Reducing traffic allows snow crews to treat and clear roadways more efficiently, while disabled or abandoned vehicles can delay snow removal operations and impede emergency response efforts. Residents who must travel should «take it slow on ice and snow,» and familiarize themselves with the three phases of the City’s Snow Emergency Plan, as parking restrictions may be implemented along designated snow emergency routes.

«Keeping Baltimore moving safely during winter weather requires preparation, coordination, and teamwork,» said Department of Transportation Interim Director Berke Attila. «Our crews are prepared to respond at a moment’s notice, and we are committed to delivering the reliable service that Baltimore depends on throughout the winter season.»

Additional Resources

More information is available by visiting the Baltimore City’s Code Blue Extreme Cold Program page and following BCHD (@baltimorehealth) on social media for alert updates.

For more information regarding warming centers, emergency shelters, and transportation assistance, contact the Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services or visit MOHS’s website and follow MOHS (@baltimoremohs) on social media for alert updates.

Winter weather and roadway conditions can change rapidly, so residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets and sign up for weather alerts. Additional information can be found on the City’s Snow Center page and through the City’s social media channels.

CORTESIA: CITY OF BALTIMORE