Baltimore City will be under a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert from Friday night through Tuesday, as a major storm is expected to dump anywhere from half-a-foot to a foot-and-a-half of snow on the region.
The impending storm has local and state officials urging residents to take precautions to avoid cold-related injuries, like frostbite and hypothermia, or even death.
“Cold weather impacts our most vulnerable residents first, especially our children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions,” Mayor Brandon M. Scott said in a statement. “Call 311 or reach out to the shelter hotline if you need help, and please look out for your neighbors.”
A Code Blue Extreme Cold Alerts are declared when temperatures, including wind chill, are forecasted to dip below 13 degrees Fahrenheit, or when conditions pose a significant risk to people’s health.
Temperatures are expected to plummet Friday night, reaching a low around 11 degrees, with a wind chill as low as -3 degrees. The frigid temperatures will continue through the weekend and early next week, according to the National Weather Service’s forecast Thursday.
The forecast shows snow starting Saturday night, with 4 to 8 inches of accumulation possible.
On Sunday, expect snow and sleet before 1 p.m. After that, sleet could be mixed with snow and freezing rain. Residents could see anywhere from 3 to 7 inches of new snow and sleet accumulation, according to the NWS forecast.
“Baltimore is expected to experience freezing temperatures this weekend, and we want to make sure all of our residents are safe and healthy,” Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor said in a statement. “Practice habits to keep yourself warm and protected, as cold-related injuries occur quickly. Please stay inside as much as possible, dress in warm layers, and if you need shelter information or any assistance, please do not hesitate to call 311. Stay safe Baltimore!”
Gov. Wes Moore has issued a State of Preparedness for Maryland ahead of the winter storm.
