Baltimore City’s health department on Friday declared its first Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert of the winter season, as temperatures and wind chills this weekend are forecast to fall to dangerous levels. The alert period will run from Sunday through Monday. During this time, wind chills are forecast to fall below 13 degrees and remain in the teens, increasing the risk of cold-related illness and injuries. Maryland’s chief medical examiner’s office has reported one cold-related death in Baltimore City so far this season. “Extreme cold can be dangerous and even deadly,” said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Michelle Taylor, in a statement. “Frostbite and hypothermia can occur quickly, especially for older adults, infants, and those with chronic health challenges. We urge residents to stay inside as much as possible, dress in layers and call 211 for shelter information or assistance.” Weekend forecast The National Weather Service forecasts temperatures will dip to a low of about 29 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday night for the Baltimore region, with winds expected to be calm. During the day Saturday, skies will be mostly cloudy and there will be a high of about 45 degrees. Rain is forecast to start before 10 p.m. Saturday, which will shift to a mix of rain and snow between 10 p.m. and 1 a.m., before fully becoming snow after 1 a.m. The overnight low is expected to be around 29 degrees, with calm wind again. Baltimore could see about 1 to 3 inches of snow accumulation. There is a slight chance of snow before 1 p.m. Sunday. Clouds are expected to give way to mostly sunny skies, with a high of about 31 degrees. Wind gusts during the day could be as high as 34 miles per hour, which will make temperatures feel even colder. Sunday night will be mostly clear, with a low of about 21 degrees and wind gusts as high as 24 miles per hour. Monday’s forecast is mostly sunny, with a high temperature near 33 degrees. Temperatures will dip to a low near 24 degrees for a partly cloudy Monday night. Resources and precautions The city will provide warming resources, shelter, and assistance to those who need it, including people experiencing homelessness. Agencies will also distribute meals to at-risk older adults, weatherize homes, help residents apply for energy assistance, and provide education and outreach about cold weather. “Our priority is to keep every resident safe during extreme cold conditions, especially our neighbors without shelter or adequate heat in their homes,” Mayor Brandon Scott said in a statement. “We are urging everyone to check on their older relatives and neighbors, and anyone who may need additional support. Together, we can help prevent cold-related emergencies and help those in need within the City of Baltimore.” Individuals, couples, and families in need of shelter can call the Baltimore City Shelter Hotline at 443-984-9540. To prevent cold-related injuries like frostbite and hypothermia — or, in extreme cases, death — the city’s health department is urging residents to take precautions. Health officials advise residents to wear layered, loose clothing and drink fluids regularly — but not alcohol. If going outside, residents should wear a hat, scarf or other head covering and walk slowly in case of icy of slippery conditions. If using a space heater or candle, keep them away from curtains, furniture, loose clothing, and other materials that could catch on fire. Residents should make sure their carbon monoxide detector is working. Do not run your car in a garage or other closed space. Also, do not use a stove to heat your home, a generator inside your home, or other prohibited heat or power sources indoors because they can cause fire or carbon monoxide poisoning. Check on children, older adults, chronically ill people, and others who are most vulnerable to the cold. Do not leave your pets outdoors for extended periods of time. If they are outdoors, make sure they have a sturdy, dry, draft-free, and raised shelter with a door flap to help them maintain heat. They also need enough bedding and fresh, unfrozen, drinkable water. If you or someone you know is experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately. Other helpful phone numbers and websites: Energy Assistance Program: 410-396-5555 Maryland Access Point: 410-396-CARE (410-396-2273) for older adults or caregivers who need help completing and mailing energy assistance applications Weatherization Assistance Program: 410-396-3023 for help installing materials that will conserve energy and reduce energy expenses Other cold-related questions and service requests, including where to find a nearby homeless shelter: 311 or 211 Visit the Baltimore City Health Department’s website for more information about the city’s Code Blue Extreme Cold Plan. ...read more read less