Baltimore City Official Notices: Winter Recovery and Code Blue Health Advisory

Health Department Extends Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert

Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor has officially extended the Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert through Tuesday morning, February 3, 2026. This extension comes in response to dangerously low temperatures and wind chills forecasted to remain in the single digits or below 13 degrees. Health officials warn that the risk of hypothermia and frostbite is significant, particularly for the city’s most vulnerable populations. Residents are urged to limit time outdoors and to check on elderly neighbors and those with limited heating. Emergency warming centers and shelters have expanded their capacity to provide safety for individuals experiencing homelessness. If you see someone in need of cold-weather assistance, please call 311 immediately.

Department of Public Works: Alley Clearing and Collection Updates

The Baltimore City Department of Public Works (DPW) has initiated a massive citywide operation to clear residential alleys of ice and packed snow. Following a series of winter storms, many alleys are currently obstructed by ice layers measuring up to three inches thick. DPW has contracted specialized heavy equipment, including bobcats and front-end loaders, to restore access. These operations are conducted daily from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. across four city quadrants.

Due to the ongoing clearing efforts, the following service adjustments are in effect for the week of February 2, 2026:

• Alley Collections: Trash and recycling collections that typically occur in alleys remain suspended for the duration of the week. Residents should utilize the modified collection approach: bring materials to the front of the home or to the end of the alley where accessible.
• Recycling Centers: Residential Recycling Centers remain open for those who wish to drop off materials directly.
• Street Sweeping: All mechanical street sweeping services are suspended until further notice to allow crews to focus on snow and ice removal.
• Missed Pickups: Residents who experience missed trash collection at their designated front-of-house locations should report the issue via the 311 system.

City Schools Reopening and Transportation Safety

Baltimore City Public Schools and administrative buildings are scheduled to reopen today, Monday, February 2, 2026. While facilities are prepared for students, officials advise that conditions remain less than ideal on side streets and sidewalks. Yellow bus service is expected to experience significant delays as drivers navigate icy patches. Parents are encouraged to build extra travel time into their morning commutes. Students and staff are reminded to walk slowly, use handrails on steps, and watch carefully for black ice near intersections and bus stops.

Legislative Notice: Maryland General Assembly

The Maryland General Assembly continues its 2026 legislative session in Annapolis. The House of Delegates is scheduled to convene today at 3:00 p.m., followed by the State Senate at 8:00 p.m. Residents interested in monitoring state-level policy changes affecting the city are encouraged to view the proceedings via the official legislative livestreams.