Baltimore’s Morning Briefing: Rising from the Frost and a Bold New Era for the Ravens

A City in Recovery: The Frost and the Flame

Good morning, Baltimore. Today is Saturday, January 31, 2026, and the city is waking up to a landscape still defined by the historic winter storm that swept through earlier this week. While the primary snow accumulation—which saw BWI Thurgood Marshall Airport buried under 11.3 inches—has ceased, the recovery effort remains the city's primary focus. Mayor Brandon Scott’s 'Cold Blue' emergency declaration remains in effect through tomorrow, February 1st, as we face single-digit wind chills and treacherous ice. Despite the freeze, the mood in the streets is one of collective resilience as neighbors continue to clear sidewalks and the city’s Emergency Operations Center remains partially activated to ensure our most vulnerable residents are brought safely indoors.

The Key Talking Point: A Youth Movement at M&T Bank Stadium

If you walked into any coffee shop in Federal Hill or Canton this morning, the conversation wasn't just about the weather; it was about the purple and black. In a move that has stunned the NFL world, the Baltimore Ravens officially announced the hiring of 29-year-old Declan Doyle as the team’s new offensive coordinator. Following the recent appointment of Jesse Minter as head coach, the hiring of Doyle—the youngest coordinator in the league—marks a radical shift in strategy. Fans are buzzing with both excitement and skepticism about whether the former Chicago Bears assistant can revitalize an offense led by Lamar Jackson. The gamble is clear: the Ravens are prioritizing innovation and youth as they look toward the 2026 season, and the 'Doyle Era' is officially the talk of the town.

Feel-Good Story: The Womb Room’s Resilient Return

In a heartwarming bookend to a difficult winter, a beloved local institution is celebrating a major comeback today. The Womb Room, a perinatal wellness center that was displaced by the devastating fire at the historic Keswick Castle in Hampden back in November, officially reopens its doors today at its new home in Govans. Moving into 'The Accelerator Space' on York Road, the organization is resuming in-person classes and support circles after months of operating virtually. This reopening is a testament to the Baltimore community, which raised thousands of dollars through grassroots fundraising to help the center recover from water damage and displacement. It is a reminder that even when the city’s historic architecture faces tragedy, the spirit of the people remains unbroken.

What to Do Today

• The Great Gatsby: The North American tour of the hit Broadway musical officially launches today at the Hippodrome Theatre. Shows run through February 7th.
• Hardcore in the City: The annual 'Disturbin’ The Peace' festival takes over Baltimore Soundstage this afternoon, featuring legendary acts like Hatebreed and Agnostic Front.
• Cult Classic Cinema: Head to the M&T Bank Exchange for a special 40th-anniversary screening of Clue, featuring a live Q&A with star Lesley Ann Warren.