Free sandbags in Baltimore (city), MD
Where to get sandbags, how to get official alerts, and how to check your own address before the next storm.
Where to get free sandbags in Baltimore (city), MD
When storms threaten, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation opens temporary sandbag sites for city residents and business owners, first-come, first-served, with proof of city residency or business ownership required. You fill and haul your own bags; sand, bags, ties and shovels were supplied on site. Sites are announced on the day of the storm (in August 2024: Thames St and Broadway in Fells Point, 5110 Frederick Ave, and Hillen Rd at 35th St); check DOT's social media.
- Baltimore City DOT: sandbags (Aug 2024 notice)baltimorecity.gov
- Baltimore City DOT on Facebook: sandbagsfacebook.com
Checked against official sources on October 24, 2026.
Free storm alerts for Baltimore (city)
When the National Weather Service issues a flood, fire, wind or hurricane warning for Baltimore (city), we email you right away with what to do. We also give you a heads-up a day ahead when NOAA forecasts severe storms or flash-flooding rain.
Want alerts for your exact street instead? Check your address and sign up there.
Is your home in a flood or fire zone?
Type your address and see your flood, wildfire, earthquake and other hazard risks on one map, free. No sign-up needed.
Get official emergency alerts
Baltimore's official alert system is BMORE Alert. It's free and sends warnings to your phone when a storm, fire or evacuation affects your area.
Before the storm: a quick checklist
- Pick up sandbags early. Supplies run out once a storm is in the forecast.
- Fill bags about halfway and lay them flat, overlapping like bricks, at doorways and the garage door.
- Clear gutters, downspouts and the storm drain in front of your house.
- Move valuables, papers and electronics off the floor.
- Take photos or a video of your rooms and belongings for insurance.
- Never walk or drive through floodwater. Turn around, don't drown.
Questions people ask
Where can I get free sandbags in Baltimore (city), MD?
When storms threaten, the Baltimore City Department of Transportation opens temporary sandbag sites for city residents and business owners, first-come, first-served, with proof of city residency or business ownership required. You fill and haul your own bags; sand, bags, ties and shovels were supplied on site. Sites are announced on the day of the storm (in August 2024: Thames St and Broadway in Fells Point, 5110 Frederick Ave, and Hillen Rd at 35th St); check DOT's social media.
How do I get emergency alerts in Baltimore (city), MD?
Sign up for BMORE Alert, which is free, and turn on Wireless Emergency Alerts on your phone.
How do I know if my home is in a flood zone in Baltimore (city), MD?
Enter your address at mystormplan.com/check to see your FEMA flood zone and other hazards for your exact property, free.
How many sandbags do I need?
A common rule of thumb is about 100 bags to build a wall 1 foot high and 20 feet long. Most homes use sandbags to steer water away from doorways and garage doors. Fill bags only about halfway so they lie flat and tight.