Boston Digs Out: The Monday Morning Blizzard Briefing

A City Under a Blanket

Good morning, Boston. If you are looking out your window today, Monday, January 26, 2026, you are likely seeing a world transformed into what meteorologists are calling a 'personal snow globe.' The mood across the city is one of quiet resilience and hunkered-down anticipation. After a weekend of record-breaking cold, the 'Big One' has officially arrived. The streets are unusually silent, save for the rhythmic hum of plows, as Bostonians trade their morning commutes for shovels and hot cocoa. There is a shared sense of community vigilance as Mayor Michelle Wu has urged residents to check on neighbors and elderly family members during this historic whiteout.

The Big Talking Point: 18 Inches and Counting

The primary topic of conversation today is the massive winter storm that has brought the region to a virtual standstill. This is the most significant snowfall the city has seen in years, with accumulations forecasted between 12 and 18 inches, and some maps suggesting up to 24 inches in Greater Boston. Travel has been described by the National Weather Service as 'very difficult to impossible,' leading to a total shutdown of several key city functions:

• School Closures: All Boston Public Schools and central offices are closed today. Additionally, Boston University has shuttered its Charles River, Fenway, and Medical campuses.
• Municipal Shutdown: Boston City Hall and other municipal buildings remain closed as the snow emergency and parking ban—in effect since Sunday morning—continue to be strictly enforced.
• Sports from Home: While the weather has grounded the city, the spirit remains high for football fans. Many are gathered around their televisions today for the New England Patriots' AFC Championship game against Denver at 3:00 PM, a perfectly timed distraction for those stuck indoors.
• Celtics Update: Tonight’s scheduled Celtics game against the Portland Trail Blazers is billed as 'First Responders Night.' While the game is still on the calendar for 8:00 PM at TD Garden, fans are advised to monitor official channels for last-minute weather updates.

Feel-Good Story: 'You Can't Beat Boston'

In the midst of the freezing temperatures and mounting drifts, a new melody is warming up the airwaves. Students from the Berklee College of Music have officially debuted 'You Can't Beat Boston,' a new anthem created for a city-wide marketing campaign. The song, which features a collaboration between local students and regional leaders, celebrates the grit and character of the Hub. It is a timely reminder that whether we are facing a championship game or a historic blizzard, the spirit of this city remains unbreakable. If you need a break from the shovel, turn up the volume and remember why we call this place home.