Montgomery County Issues Cold Emergency Alert Beginning at 3 p.m. on Friday, Jan. 23

For Immediate Release: Friday, January 23, 2026

Montgomery County's Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security has issued a Cold Emergency Alert effective at 3 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, and continuing through 12 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Extremely cold weather is expected to bring temperatures into the teens and single digits. Wind chills during this period are forecast to drop into the single digits and near zero degrees.

A Cold Emergency Alert is the highest level of extreme temperature alert issued by the County. It is activated when conditions-temperature combined with wind chill-are expected to fall below 20 degrees and other hazardous conditions are present. These conditions pose a significant threat to exposed human and animal life.

More information on how to prepare for and respond to extreme cold is available on the County's Hypothermia Alert page. County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis also shares important winter safety guidance. Residents can watch the Winter Safety Tips from Montgomery County's Public Health Officer video on the County's YouTube channel.

Due to the expected snow this weekend, Montgomery County Department of Transportation (MCDOT) Ride On bus service may switch to an "S Service Schedule." Riders should check Ride On alerts posted on the County's snow portal website or visit the Ride On website for service updates. The Ride On Trip Planner App shows bus arrival in real time. It is suggested that riders check the app before heading to their bus stop and dress warmly and in layers with waterproof shoes.

The Poolesville Beauty Spot will be closed for trash service on Saturday, Jan. 24, due to weather-related preparations and operations. Residents should visit the Department of Environmental Protection website for updated trash and recycling schedules.

Residents are advised to check County Public Libraries and Recreation websites for updates on any facility closures.

During periods of extreme cold, residents are reminded to take the following precautions:

• Limit time outdoors when possible. Extreme cold poses increased risks for children, older adults, individuals experiencing homelessness, and animals. Frostbite can develop in as little as 30 minutes of exposure.
• Dress in layers of warm clothing and wear a hat; nearly half of body heat is lost through the head.
• Cover your mouth to protect your lungs from cold air.
• Mittens (snug at the wrist) provide better warmth than gloves.
• Do not ignore shivering, which is an early sign that the body is losing heat. Persistent shivering is a signal to return indoors.
• Residents who must work or spend extended periods outdoors should wear additional layers, take frequent breaks in warm locations, and drink warm fluids. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.

When open during regular hours, Montgomery County facilities including libraries, recreation centers and senior centers, are available to anyone seeking relief from the cold. Public shopping centers may also serve as warming locations during their normal operating hours. Residents should confirm hours of operation before visiting.

Staff from the Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and community-based providers will conduct outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness and encourage them to seek shelter during the extreme cold.

Residents concerned about the well-being of individuals experiencing homelessness may call the 24-hour Crisis Line at 240-907-2688. Outreach partners will attempt to locate the individual and connect them with resources and support.

Preparations are also underway in the event that emergency shelters are needed due to power outages or other emergencies.

A resident facing a utility shutoff may be eligible for assistance through Maryland's DHHS Office of Home Energy Programs (OHEP). Call OHEP at 240-777-4450 or call 3-1-1, or apply online at https://mymdthink.maryland.gov/home/#/.

In accordance with Executive Regulation 17-17, pets must not be left outside unattended during periods of extreme cold. Leaving a pet outside in these conditions may be considered an act of cruelty and could result in fines or charges for the pet owner. The regulation is enforced by the Office of Animal Services under the authority of its executive director.

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