Baltimore pools closed on July 18 after unhealthy air conditions forced officials to restrict operations across the city. Baltimore Recreation and Parks later shut every public pool because thunderstorms were approaching, as the Baltimore Chronicle reports.
The department initially planned shortened schedules at 9 locations. That decision followed a serious regional air-quality event linked to wildfire smoke moving across the Mid-Atlantic.
Which Baltimore Pools Were Scheduled to Open
Four park pools were expected to operate from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Operations would then resume from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m.:
- Druid Hill Park
- Clifton Park
- Cherry Hill Splash Park
- Patterson Park
Five neighborhood pools received a separate schedule. They were expected to open from noon until 3:30 p.m., then continue until 6:30 p.m.:
- C.C. Jackson
- Coldstream
- Greater Model
- Towanda
- Walter P. Carter
These limited hours were never completed as planned. Officials later announced that all Baltimore pools were closed because storms were approaching the city.
Why Baltimore Restricted Pool Operations
Maryland environmental officials issued a Code Purple alert for Baltimore amid very unhealthy air conditions. Wildfire smoke had spread across much of the Midwest, Northeast and Mid-Atlantic region.
| Operational stage | Locations affected | Announced reason |
|---|---|---|
| Initial restriction | 9 pools | Poor air quality |
| Reduced schedules | Park and neighborhood pools | Health precautions |
| Final closure | All Baltimore pools | Impending storms |
The Recreation and Parks Department said it was prioritizing staff and community safety during the air-quality event. The later storm threat prompted officials to replace the reduced schedule with a complete closure.
Residents should check current Baltimore Recreation and Parks notices before visiting a pool. Operating plans may change quickly during air-quality alerts or severe weather.
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