BALTIMORE — With temperatures expected to rise in the Baltimore region and the heat index forecasted to reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit next week, Baltimore City Health Commissioner has issued a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert for July 19 through July 22.
This is Baltimore City’s first Code Red Extreme Heat Alert of the season.
“Excessive heat is the leading weather-related killer in the United States. The effects of extreme heat are exacerbated in urban areas, especially when combined with high humidity and poor air quality,” said Dr. Letitia Dzirasa. “Extreme heat is particularly dangerous for young children, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions. I encourage all residents to take the necessary steps to protect themselves as well as their families, neighbors, and pets.”
The Health Commissioner may declare a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert during periods of heat that are severe enough to present a substantial threat to the life or health of vulnerable Baltimore residents.
Once a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert declaration is made, public messaging activities are undertaken to encourage safety. Even on days when a Code Red Extreme Heat Alert is not declared, it is important to take precautions.
The Health Department’s Division of Aging will open the following locations as cooling centers on Monday, July 20 through Wednesday, July 22 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.:
- Waxter Center for Senior Citizens 1000 Cathedral Street (410) 396-1324
- Oliver Center Senior Center 1700 Gay Street (410) 396-3861
- Hatton Senior Center 2825 Fait Avenue (410) 396-9025
- John Booth Senior Center 2601-A East Baltimore St. (410) 396-9202
- Harford Senior Center 4920 Harford Rd. (410) 426-4009
- Sandtown Winchester Senior Center 1601 Baker St. (410) 396-7725
- Zeta Center for Healthy and Active Aging 4501 Reistertown Rd. (410) 396-3535
The Baltimore City Department of Recreation and Parks will also open the following locations as cooling centers on Monday, July 20 through Wednesday, July 22 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.:
- Mary E. Rodman Recreation Center- 3600 Mulberry St, 410-396-0477
- Robert C. Marshall Recreation Center- 1201 Pennsylvania Ave, 410-396-8490
- James D. Gross Recreation Center- 4600 Lanair Ave, 410-396-0755
Additionally, ShopRite Howard Park (4601 Liberty Heights Ave., 21207) will be open as a community cooling center during their regular hours.
Residents who want to visit a cooling center to seek relief from the heat are encouraged to call the cooling center prior to arrival to ensure space is available.
To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, residents who visit a cooling center are reminded to wear a cloth mask in public and maintain social distancing by remaining at least 6 feet apart from others when possible.
You should not visit a cooling center if you have the following symptoms:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you should call ahead to a healthcare professional and mention your symptoms.
