Official Notice: Baltimore State of Emergency and City Service Modifications

State of Emergency and Government Closures

In response to the severe winter storm and significant snow accumulation, Mayor Brandon M. Scott has issued an Executive Order declaring a State of Emergency in Baltimore City. As of Monday, January 26, 2026, the Baltimore City Emergency Operations Center remains activated to coordinate the citywide response to icy conditions and freezing temperatures.

Due to the emergency declaration, Baltimore City Government is closed for in-person operations today for all non-essential employees. Essential personnel are required to report as scheduled. The following facilities and services are also closed or canceled:

• Baltimore City Public Schools and Central Offices.
• The Circuit Court for Baltimore City and all courthouse buildings.
• All branches of the Enoch Pratt Free Library.
• Mayor’s Office of Employment Development (MOED) job centers.
• All Department of Public Works (DPW) Resident Recycling Centers.

Department of Public Works: Trash and Recycling Shifts

The Department of Public Works has implemented temporary modifications to solid waste operations to ensure public safety. Residents should be aware of the following adjustments:

• Collection Suspension: Tuesday trash pickups are suspended and will be rescheduled for Saturday. All recycling collection is suspended for the remainder of the week.
• Alley Access: Due to snow and ice, trash collection will not occur via alleys. Residents who normally receive alley pickup must move their trash cans to the end of the alley or the front of their residence to ensure access for collection crews.
• Reporting Issues: Residents are encouraged to report missed pickups or downed trees by calling 311.

Health Advisory: Code Blue and Shelter Activation

The Baltimore City Health Department has issued a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert, effective through Tuesday, January 27. Wind chills are expected to remain in the single digits, posing a serious risk of hypothermia. The Mayor’s Office of Homeless Services has also activated Code Purple winter shelter protocols.

Warming centers are currently available for those in need of shelter from the extreme cold. Residents are urged to check on vulnerable neighbors and seniors. If you see an individual in need of cold-weather assistance, please contact the 311 services line immediately.

Transportation and Parking Regulations

The Baltimore City Department of Transportation (DOT) has activated over 700 vehicles for snow removal and road treatment. Residents must follow these regulations to facilitate clearing efforts:

• Snow Emergency Routes: Parking is strictly prohibited along all designated snow emergency routes to allow for curb-to-curb plowing. Illegally parked vehicles are subject to ticketing and towing.
• Free Parking: To assist residents, free parking is available at City-owned parking garages and select City School lots until 7:00 PM this evening.
• Public Transit: MTA local bus service has resumed on a modified basis, operating along CityLink routes only. The MARC train service remains suspended for the day.