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Code Blue alert extended through Wednesday

Posted at 6:17 AM, Jan 18, 2016
and last updated 2016-01-19 12:40:40-05

Baltimore City is now under a Code Blue alert through 10 a.m. Wednesday. 

“I am issuing a Code Blue Declaration in Baltimore beginning early Monday morning and encourage residents to stay in indoors, especially those most vulnerable to cold,” Baltimore City Health Commissioner Dr. Leana Wen said in a news release. “Extreme cold temperatures can permanently injure, or even kill. Hypothermia, or low body temperature, can be just as dangerous as extreme heat, so it is important to stay indoors in heated areas. Be sure to check on your elderly neighbors to ensure that they have heat and power.”

A Code Blue alert was first issued Monday, when wind gusts as high as 34 miles per hour were expected  with temperatures as low as 11 degrees.

RELATED: Update: Mid-Atlantic snowstorm for Jan. 22-24 weekend

Code Blue alerts are issued by the Baltimore City Health Commissioner when temperatures and wind chills are 13 degrees or lower or when conditions pose a significant threat to the health of vulnerable people living in the city.

Homeless shelters are extending their hours and adding more beds. The city's 311 call center is also on standby to assist anyone with heating issues. 

RELATED: Anne Arundel County opens warming centers

In Anne Arundel County, warming shelters were open until Tuesday morning at 7 a.m. to provide relief for locals. 

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