Updated: Baltimore Activates Snow Emergency: Travel Restrictions, 311 Reporting, and BGE Safety Guidance Now in Effect

By BJLife Newsroom
Posted on 01/25/26

Baltimore, MD – Jan. 25, 2026 – Baltimore City has declared a Snow Emergency as a major winter storm impacts the region, bringing heavy snow, possible ice, and dangerously cold temperatures.

City officials are urging residents to stay home and avoid unnecessary travel so emergency crews and snowplows can operate safely.

During the snow emergency, vehicles operating on Baltimore City streets must be equipped with snow tires, all-weather radial tires, or chains. As conditions worsen, only authorized emergency and essential vehicles — including snowplows, BGE crews, medical transport, and first responders — are permitted on city streets.

Residents can view official Snow Emergency Routes and city updates at:
http://snow.baltimorecity.gov

For neighborhood-specific updates, residents are encouraged to monitor the city’s snow page, sign up for weather alerts, and follow local news outlets.


Northwestern High School Designated Overflow Parking

Residents who must move vehicles from snow emergency routes may use the following outdoor city location:

Northwestern High School Building
6900 Park Heights Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21215


Use 311 for Storm-Related Issues

Baltimore City asks residents to use the 311 system or the Baltimore 311 mobile app to report non-emergency storm issues, including:

Emergency situations should still be reported by calling 911.

The 311 app allows residents to submit service requests, upload photos, and track responses directly from their phone.


BGE Utility Safety Advisory

With snow and ice expected to persist, BGE reminds residents to take precautions around natural gas and electrical equipment:

If you smell natural gas or suspect a leak, move at least 100 feet away and immediately call 911 or BGE at 1-877-778-7798.

Residents should never approach fallen overhead power lines, even if they do not appear active. Downed electrical lines and outages can be reported to BGE at 877-778-2222.


Power Restoration Priorities and Alerts

BGE restoration efforts prioritize public safety and essential services such as 911 centers, hospitals, and pumping stations. Crews then work to restore power to the greatest number of customers as quickly and safely as possible. During extended outages, consideration is also given to customers who have been without service the longest.

Residents are encouraged to visit BGE.com/alerts to receive outage updates by text, email, or phone. Customers can also enroll in BGE’s two-way texting program by sending ADDOUTAGE to MYBGE (69243).

BGE also provides an online video explaining its storm restoration process.


Bottom Line

Baltimore is now operating under snow emergency conditions. Travel is restricted, emergency crews need clear streets, and residents are urged to remain indoors, prepare for possible power outages, use 311 for non-emergency storm issues, and follow BGE safety guidance.

Residents are also encouraged to check on elderly neighbors and use caution with alternative heating sources.