7 days ago
Dangerous heat prompts Code Red Extreme Heat Alert in Baltimore, open cooling centers
Baltimore City has issued a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert with extreme heat expected across Maryland through Tuesday, July 29.
The blast of heat could make the temperatures feel like they're at least 105 degrees.
The Code Red Extreme Heat Alert will allow Baltimore City to enhance safety protocols to protect city employees, particularly frontline and outdoor employees, including sanitation crews, public works staff, emergency responders, and others working in high-exposure environments.
"With dangerous heat in the forefront, our top priority is protecting the health and well-being of our residents," Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said. "Extreme heat can be life-threatening, especially for our older adults, children, pets, and our police officers, firefighters, EMTs, Sanitation workers, and all city employees who work tirelessly outdoors to keep our community clean and safe."
The alert also allows Baltimore to open several cooling centers throughout the city.
According to the Baltimore City Health Department, Code Red Extreme Heat Alerts are prompted when temperatures are considered to be dangerous.
"As we head into what will be an extremely hot weekend, I am issuing a Code Red Extreme Heat alert to protect the health and safety of our community," said Interim Health Commissioner Mary Beth Haller. "I urge everyone to take precautions – stay hydrated, avoid strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and check in on neighbors and loved ones."
The WJZ First Alert Team issued Alert Days for Friday through Sunday due to the risk of dangerous heat, particularly for those who are working outdoors.
Friday will be one of the toughest days of the heatwave. High temperatures are forecast to reach the upper 90s to near 100 degrees, but topical levels of humidity will make the heat feel dangerously hot. It will easily feel hotter than 100 degrees. A few neighborhoods could feel as hot as 110 degrees on Friday afternoon.
Saturday and Sunday will feature more brutal heat and humidity.
Several cooling centers will be open throughout Baltimore.
Friday, July 25
Saturday, July 26
Monday, July 28
Tuesday, July 29
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says these tips can help prevent heat-related illnesses:
