The Big Chill: Baltimore Gripped by Bracing Sun and Single-Digit Wind Chills

The Deep Freeze Continues Across Charm City

Baltimore residents waking up this Monday, February 2, 2026, are facing some of the most challenging winter conditions of the season. While the sky remains a deceptive, brilliant blue, the reality on the ground is far more severe. The Baltimore City Health Department has officially extended its Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert through Tuesday morning, February 3, as the region grapples with dangerous sub-freezing temperatures and persistent ice.

Morning: A Frigid and Blustery Start

The morning commute is marked by bone-chilling conditions. Early temperatures are hovering around 21°F, but the real story is the wind chill. Strong gusts are making it feel like 9°F or lower across the Inner Harbor and surrounding neighborhoods. Because of the prolonged sub-freezing streak, many residential areas are still dealing with two to three inches of solid ice in alleys, prompting the Department of Public Works to begin specialized clearing operations today. Baltimore City Public Schools and several surrounding districts are operating on a two-hour delay to allow for safer travel during these peak cold hours.

Afternoon: Chasing the Freezing Mark

As we move into the afternoon, the sun will remain fully visible, providing a beautiful but largely heatless backdrop. Forecasters predict a daytime high of approximately 32°F—the first time Baltimore has approached the freezing mark since last Sunday. Despite the technical rise in temperature, it will remain blustery. Residents are encouraged to wear multiple layers, as the wind will continue to bite throughout the day, particularly in wind-tunnel areas of the downtown corridor.

Evening: Clouds Gather as Temperatures Plunge

The clear skies will give way to increasing cloud cover as the evening progresses. By nightfall, the mercury will drop back down into the lower 20s. While there is a minimal 10% chance of a stray snow flurry overnight, the primary concern remains the refreezing of any moisture on the roads. The humidity is expected to sit around 52%, and while the winds may slightly decrease compared to the morning hours, the ambient air will remain dangerously cold.

Winter Safety Reminders

• Code Blue Status: All emergency shelters are open and operating under expanded outreach protocols.
• Protect the Vulnerable: Check on elderly neighbors and ensure pets are kept indoors during these sub-zero wind chills.
• Hazardous Alleys: Avoid driving through unplowed alleys where thick ice may cause vehicles to lose traction or become stuck.