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Code Orange Air Alert Issued as Baltimore Hits 96°F

5/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

State and local officials issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel, Harford, and Cecil counties as temperatures climb toward 96 °F.
The National Weather Service predicts Tuesday highs near 96 °F and advises sensitive groups to limit outdoor activity.
A cold front Wednesday afternoon is expected to produce strong thunderstorms, at least 1.5 in of rain, and cooler 60s-70s temperatures for Memorial Day weekend.

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Story summary

State and local officials issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Anne Arundel, Harford, and Cecil counties as temperatures climb toward 96 °F.
The National Weather Service predicts Tuesday highs near 96 °F and advises sensitive groups to limit outdoor activity.
A cold front Wednesday afternoon is expected to produce strong thunderstorms, at least 1.5 in of rain, and cooler 60s-70s temperatures for Memorial Day weekend.