By Tashi McQueen,
AFRO Political Writer,
tmcqueen@afro.com
On the evening of Feb. 3, Baltimore City will be under a Code Blue due to extreme cold weather. Frigid air is expected to come in, presenting estimated wind chills into the single digits.
Letitia Dzirasa, the city’s health commissioner, declared a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert from Feb. 3 through the morning of Feb. 4.
“I encourage residents to stay indoors, especially those most vulnerable to cold,” said Baltimore City Health Commissioner Letitia Dzirasa. “Extreme low temperatures can be life-threatening, especially for our most vulnerable populations. Please check on neighbors who you think may be at risk to ensure that they have heat and power, and take care to shelter pets appropriately.”
According to the Baltimore City Health Department, a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert can be deemed necessary when temperatures are expected to be 13 degrees Fahrenheit or below or when conditions substantially threaten the health of vulnerable Baltimore citizens.
The state Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reports 15 cold-related deaths in Baltimore City this Code Blue Extreme Cold season. The Code Blue Extreme Cold season started on Nov. 15, 2022 and will end on March 15.
City agencies will provide meals for at-risk seniors, home weatherization services, cold weather education, outreach and help individuals sign up for energy assistance.
Tashi McQueen is a Report For America Corps Member.
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