Baltimore Code Red Extreme Heat Alert measures took effect Wednesday, July 1, and will remain active through Saturday, July 4. Mayor Brandon Scott urged residents to limit outdoor activity, drink water, and check on vulnerable neighbors, according to the Baltimore Chronicle.
The National Weather Service expects dangerous heat to intensify before the Independence Day holiday. Forecasts indicate temperatures near 100°F, with heat index values potentially approaching 110°F.
Baltimore cooling centers and extended pool hours
Community cooling centers will operate across Baltimore through Sunday, July 5. Most locations provide free Wi-Fi and access to air-conditioned rooms.
| Facility type | Typical opening hours |
|---|---|
| Senior centers | 9 a.m.–7 p.m. |
| Housing locations | 8 a.m.–4 p.m. |
| Recreation centers | Evening hours or noon–8 p.m. |
| ShopRite of Howard Park | 6 a.m.–10 p.m. |
Residents can call 311 for the nearest Baltimore cooling center. Anyone experiencing confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or other heat-stroke symptoms should call 911.
City pools will offer four daily swimming sessions. Evening hours will extend until 8:30 p.m. Neighborhood pools normally closed Sunday will also operate during the emergency.
Recycling paused as Baltimore changes outdoor services
Baltimore’s Department of Public Works paused residential recycling collections for the remainder of the week. The measure protects sanitation employees while crews prioritize regular trash collection.
Residents should place only household trash outside. Friday collection will continue despite the July 3 city holiday.
Other changes include:
- outdoor recreation programs and track practices are cancelled;
- summer camp activities will move indoors;
- campers will travel only on air-conditioned buses;
- tennis camp sessions will move inside during dangerous heat.
Scheduled swimming trips will continue as cooling activities. Libraries will open Thursday, July 2, but remain closed from July 3 through July 5.
Maryland officials have reported two heat-related deaths in Baltimore City during 2026. Residents should avoid strenuous activity during afternoon hours and never leave children or animals inside vehicles.
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