Baltimore strengthens winter storm response after last season's costly cleanup

Baltimore officials say the city is better prepared for winter after last season’s severe storms, which left snow and ice that took weeks to clear and cost about $80 million to remove. The city has reviewed plow routes, contractors, equipment and communications, strengthened coordination among agencies, and plans an exercise to test its response. Officials urged residents to stock emergency supplies, sign up for BMORE Alert, drive carefully and check on neighbors who may need help. During extreme cold, Code Blue and Code Purple protocols activate additional health and outreach services, including shelters and warming centers; residents can also report people experiencing homelessness to 311.