Baltimore, January 24, 2026
Baltimore is preparing for a significant winter storm this weekend, with forecasts predicting 6 to 12 inches of snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. The city has activated its Snow Emergency Plan, urging residents to prepare for hazardous conditions and avoid unnecessary travel. The storm is expected to transition from snow to ice and bring blizzard-like conditions, making travel difficult. Health officials are also issuing cold weather alerts, emphasizing safety precautions to protect residents during this extreme weather event.
Baltimore Braces for Impending Winter Storm This Weekend
Baltimore, MD – A significant winter storm is set to impact Baltimore this weekend, bringing heavy snow, ice, and dangerously cold temperatures. Residents are urged to prepare for hazardous conditions and avoid unnecessary travel.
Winter Storm Details
The storm is anticipated to commence late Saturday afternoon, transitioning from snow to ice by Sunday morning. Baltimore residents can expect accumulations of 6 to 12 inches of snow, along with the potential for sleet and freezing rain that could result in ice accumulations of up to 0.20 inches. Wind gusts may reach up to 45 mph, creating blizzard-like conditions, rendering travel very difficult to impossible. Dangerous sub-zero wind chills are also forecasted to persist into the following week.
City’s Response and Snow Emergency Plan
In preparation for the winter storm, Baltimore officials have activated the Snow Emergency Plan, effective at 12:00 PM on Saturday. This plan includes several measures:
- Phase 2 Activation: All vehicles must be equipped with snow tires, all-weather radials, or chains. Parking is prohibited along designated Snow Emergency Routes to enable efficient snow removal. Vehicles parked on these routes may be faced with tickets and relocation.
- Free Parking Options: Commencing at 12:00 PM on Sunday, free parking will be available in eight city-owned garages for residents. This is managed on a first-come, first-served basis, and proof of residency is necessary.
- Public Transportation Adjustments: The Charm City Circulator will cease operations on Saturday night at 10:00 PM and tentatively plans to resume service on Sunday at noon. Riders are encouraged to stay updated on status changes.
Health and Safety Precautions
The Baltimore City Health Department has issued a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert from Friday night through Tuesday, January 27 due to forecasted wind chills expected to drop into the single digits, with possible negative wind chills. Residents are advised to remain indoors, dress appropriately for the cold, and check on neighbors who may need assistance.
Statewide Measures
In response to the storm, Governor Wes Moore has declared a State of Emergency for Maryland and is seeking a federal emergency declaration ahead of the approaching weather. With anticipated heavy snow, ice, and dangerously low wind chills, residents should prioritize safety by avoiding travel and staying informed through local forecasts.
Additional Information
For ongoing updates and more detailed information, residents are encouraged to visit the Baltimore City Snow Center website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the expected snowfall for Baltimore this weekend?
The storm is expected to bring 6 to 12 inches of snow to the Baltimore area, with the possibility of sleet and freezing rain leading to ice accumulations of up to 0.20 inches.
When does the Snow Emergency Plan go into effect?
The Snow Emergency Plan is activated at 12:00 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026.
Are there free parking options available during the snow emergency?
Yes, starting at 12:00 PM on Sunday, January 25, 2026, free parking will be available in eight city-owned garages for residents. Parking is on a first-come, first-served basis, and proof of residency is required.
What should residents do to stay safe during the storm?
Residents are advised to stay indoors, dress warmly, and check on vulnerable neighbors. The Baltimore City Health Department has declared a Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert from Friday night through Tuesday, January 27, due to forecasted wind chills expected to drop into the single digits, with the possibility of negative wind chills.
How can I stay informed about the storm’s progress?
For the latest updates and detailed information, residents can visit the Baltimore City Snow Center website.
Key Features of the Upcoming Winter Storm
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Snowfall Accumulation | 6 to 12 inches, with potential sleet and freezing rain leading to ice accumulations of up to 0.20 inches. |
| Wind Gusts | Up to 45 mph, creating blizzard-like conditions. |
| Travel Conditions | Very difficult to impossible; dangerous sub-zero wind chills expected into next week. |
| Snow Emergency Plan Activation | Phase 2 begins at 12:00 PM on Saturday, January 24, 2026; parking prohibited along designated Snow Emergency Routes. |
| Free Parking Options | Available in eight city-owned garages starting at 12:00 PM on Sunday, January 25, 2026; proof of residency required. |
| Public Transportation Adjustments | Charm City Circulator ends service on Saturday night at 10:00 PM; tentative resumption on Sunday at noon. |
| Health Alert | Code Blue Extreme Cold Alert declared from Friday night through Tuesday, January 27, 2026; wind chills expected to drop into the single digits, with the possibility of negative wind chills. |
| Statewide Measures | Governor Wes Moore declared a State of Emergency for Maryland; residents urged to avoid travel and stay informed through local forecasts. |
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