Baltimore Officials Issue Code Red Heat Alert For Sunday, Monday

Baltimore City health officials Friday issued a Code Red Heat Alert for Sunday and Monday, citing heat indices forecast to reach 100 degrees.

“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,” Health Commissioner Dr. Letitia Dzirasa said in a statement. “Extreme heat is particularly dangerous to 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 forecast calls for highs in the low 90s on Sunday, with a chance of a thunderstorm. On Monday, Baltimoreans should expect more sun, with highs in the mid 90s.

Cooling centers will be open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday and from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday at the city's five Community Action Partnership centers at 5225 York Road, 606 Cherry Hill Road, 3939 Reisterstown Road, 3411 Bank St. and 1731 E. Chase St. The ShopRite at 4601 Liberty Heights Ave. will be open as a cooling center through Monday during its regular hours, and city-owned pools will also have extended hours.

Six city senior centers will also be open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday. Those include the Waxter Center for Senior Citizens (1000 Cathedral St.), Oliver Senior Center (1700 Gay St.), Sandtown-Winchester Senior Center (1601 N. Baker St.), Hatton Senior Center (2825 Fait Ave.), John Booth/Hooper Senior Center (2601 E. Baltimore St.) and Zeta Center (4501 Reisterstown Road).

City health officials advise residents to drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol and caffeine, reduce outdoor activities, stay inside during the hottest time of the day, seek relief in air-conditioned locations and check on older, sick or frail neighbors who may need help.

Residents who want information on cooling centers can call 311. Anyone having a heat-related medical emergency or who is experiencing the signs of heat-related illness should call 911.