Baltimore Issues Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for July 15-16

Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor has announced a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for July 15 and 16, with temperatures expected to reach or exceed 105 degrees Fahrenheit.

Mayor Brandon Scott emphasized the importance of community support during extreme heat events, stating, "Planning ahead for extreme heat, checking in on neighbors and loved ones, and knowing where to find relief can make a lifesaving difference." He urged residents to take necessary precautions to ensure safety during the hottest days of summer.

The Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is issued when severe heat poses a significant risk to public health. Dr. Taylor highlighted that two heat-related fatalities have already been documented in 2026, underscoring the potential dangers of extreme temperatures.

"Extreme heat is a dangerous weather-related hazard, and a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is a signal for everyone to take the risks seriously," Dr. Taylor stated. She advised residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and check on vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and those without air conditioning.

In response to the heat, Baltimore will adjust its residential trash and recycling collection schedule, beginning at 5 a.m. to allow crews to operate during cooler morning temperatures. Residents are encouraged to place their materials at the curb the night before collection.

Cooling Centers Available

Several cooling centers will be open for residents seeking relief from the heat on both days:

• Cherry Hill Homes - 2700 Spelman Road, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• Brooklyn Homes - 4140 10th Street, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• ShopRite of Howard Park - 4601 Liberty Heights Avenue, 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.
• Harford Senior Center - 4920 Harford Road, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Hatton Senior Center - 2825 Fait Avenue, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Oliver Senior Center - 1700 Gay Street, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Sandtown Winchester Senior Center - 1601 Baker Street, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Zeta Center for Healthy and Active Aging - 4501 Reisterstown Road, 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
• Beans and Bread - 400 S. Bond Street, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
• Franciscan Center - 101 W. 23rd Street, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• Manna House - 435 E. 25th Street, 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• My Sisters Place (women and children only) - 17 W. Franklin Street, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Weinberg Housing Resource Center - 620 Fallsway, 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
• Zion Lutheran Church - 400 E. Lexington Street, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

Residents are encouraged to utilize these centers for relief from the extreme heat.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WMAR-2 News (source).