Baltimore Issues Code Red Heat Alert Ahead of July 4 Weekend

Baltimore is bracing for a severe heat wave, prompting Mayor Brandon M. Scott and the Baltimore City Office of Emergency Management (OEM) to declare a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert. This alert will be in effect from Wednesday, July 1, through Saturday, July 4, 2026.

The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning, advising residents to take necessary precautions. Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor emphasized the importance of staying informed and taking care of vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with pre-existing health conditions.

Mayor Scott stated, “Protecting the health and well-being of Baltimore residents is our top priority. During heat waves, please take care of yourself: drink plenty of water, limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day, and find air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.”

In response to the heat emergency, the Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has suspended residential recycling collections starting July 1 to prioritize trash collection and protect sanitation workers. Residents are advised to place only trash out for collection this week, with recycling centers operating from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Additionally, all outdoor athletic programming by Baltimore City Recreation and Parks (BCRP) will be canceled during the Code Red period. Camp activities will be moved indoors, and transportation will utilize air-conditioned buses. Swimming trips will still take place as a cooling activity.

To provide relief from the heat, several cooling centers will be available throughout the city from July 1 to July 5. Locations include:

• Cherry Hill Homes - 2700 Spelman Rd. (8:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.)
• Brooklyn Homes - 4140 10th St. (8:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.)
• ShopRite of Howard Park - 4601 Liberty Heights Ave. (6:00 A.M. - 10:00 P.M.)
• Harford Senior Center - 4920 Harford Rd. (9:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.)
• Hatton Senior Center - 2825 Fait Ave. (9:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.)
• Oliver Senior Center - 1700 Gay St. (9:00 A.M. - 7:00 P.M.)
• Beans and Bread - 400 S. Bond St. (10:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.)

For more information on cooling centers or to report heat-related medical emergencies, residents can call 311 or 911 as necessary. The Baltimore Police Department is also working with public safety partners to ensure the health and safety of the community during this extreme heat event.

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