Extreme Cold Emergency Declared for Dorchester County

The Dorchester County Health Officer has declared an Extreme Cold Event beginning Sunday evening, Dec. 14, and continuing through Monday morning, Dec. 15.

According to the National Weather Service, wind chills are expected to reach 13 degrees Fahrenheit or lower during this period. These conditions pose a serious risk to life and health.

“We are activating our Extreme Cold Plan to ensure our most vulnerable residents have access to warming and shelter,” said Dr. Casey Scott, Dorchester County Health Officer. “With wind chills at these levels, frostbite and hypothermia can develop quickly. We urge everyone to remain indoors when possible and to check on family members, friends, and neighbors.”

Shelter and Warming Resources

In coordination with the Extreme Temperature Collaboration Group, the following services are available:

• Dorchester Temporary Shelter: Located at 200 Washington Street in Cambridge, this facility will serve as the primary overnight shelter.

• Availability and Overflow Information: Residents seeking shelter or information about additional warming center availability may contact the Delmarva Community Action Center at 410-221-1900 or the Dorchester County Health Department at 410-228-3223.

• Direct Shelter Line: For questions related specifically to the Dorchester Temporary Shelter, call 443-477-2219.

Cold Weather Safety Tips

The Dorchester County Health Department urges residents to take the following precautions:

• Dress for the cold: Wear multiple layers of loose, lightweight clothing. A hat and mittens are recommended, as mittens provide more warmth than gloves.

• Watch for warning signs: Symptoms of hypothermia include intense shivering, confusion, and difficulty using hands. Frostbite may appear as numbness or pale, waxy skin. Call 911 immediately if these symptoms occur.

• Protect pets: Bring pets indoors whenever possible. Ensure they have access to unfrozen water and adequate shelter.

• Check on others: Reach out to older adults, families with young children, and individuals who may lack sufficient heating.

How the Community Can Help

• Share cold weather safety information widely through community networks and social media. Official updates are available at dorchesterhealth.org, on Facebook at facebook.com/dorchestermdhealth, and on Nextdoor at nextdoor.com/agency/dorchester-county-health-department.

• Check on neighbors, particularly older adults, individuals experiencing homelessness, those with chronic medical conditions, and young children.

• Encourage people who work outdoors to take extra precautions and dress appropriately.

• Residents interested in supporting the community during future weather events or public health emergencies can register with Maryland Responds at health.maryland.gov/mdr/Pages/Registration.aspx.

For additional information on cold weather safety and local resources, visit dorchesterhealth.org.