Code Red Extreme Heat Alert extended in Baltimore as cooling centers remain open

Baltimore City has extended a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert, with dangerous heat expected across Maryland through Thursday, July 31.

The blast of heat could make the temperatures feel like 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 the extension of the Code Red Extreme Heat alert, we want to make sure all residents are safe and have access to resources to stay cool during this time," Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott said. "As community members, I urge everyone to check on their neighbors and utilize the city's cooling centers as needed." 

"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 the city 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."

Baltimore cooling centers

Several cooling centers will be open throughout Baltimore.

Thursday, July 31

• Oliver Senior Center, 1700 N. Gay Street, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Sandtown-Winchester Senior Center, 1601 Baker Street, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Hatton Senior Center, 2825 Fait Avenue, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Zeta Senior Center, 4501 Reisterstown Road, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• Harford Senior Center, 4920 Harford Road, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
• My Sister's Place Women's Center, 17 W. Franklin Street, 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
• Manna House, 35 E. 25th Street, 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• Beans and Bread, 400 S. Bond Street, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Franciscan Center, 101 W. 23rd Street, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Weinberg Housing Resource Center, 620 Falls Way, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Harbel, 5807 Harford Road, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tips to prevent heat-related illnesses

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says these tips can help prevent heat-related illnesses:

• Stay in the shade as much as possible.
• Take breaks when you need
• Stay inside during the hottest time of day (11 a.m. and 4 p.m.)
• Stay hydrated and carry water with you
• Avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Wear loose, lightweight, light-colored clothing and sunscreen.
• Never leave children or pets in cars.
• Take cool showers or baths to cool down
• Stay in an air-conditioned indoor location as much as you can.