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City Notice: Major Snow Emergency and Municipal Closures

AuthorEditorial Team
Published
January 26, 2026/09:00 AM
Section
Social
City Notice: Major Snow Emergency and Municipal Closures
Source: Wikimedia Commons / Author: City of Boston Archives

Snow Emergency and Parking Ban in Effect

Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a city-wide snow emergency and parking ban effective as of Sunday morning, January 25, 2026. This order remains in active effect for Monday, January 26, to accommodate the clearing of significant snowfall. Residents are advised that vehicles parked on major roads and designated snow emergency arteries will be subject to ticketing and towing to facilitate essential plowing and emergency vehicle access. The City of Boston encourages residents to utilize the available discounted parking at participating local garages for the duration of this emergency and to call 311 for any non-emergency storm-related issues.

Public School and Municipal Closures

Due to the severe winter storm and projected snow accumulation, all Boston Public Schools and central offices are closed today, Monday, January 26, 2026. All extracurricular activities, including sports and community programs scheduled for the day, have been canceled. Additionally, Boston City Hall and other municipal buildings, including Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) community centers and all Boston Public Library branches, are closed for administrative business. Online city services remain fully operational and accessible via the official city portal for residents needing to pay bills or apply for permits.

State Government Work Directive

Governor Maura Healey has issued a statewide directive for all non-emergency Executive Department state employees to not report to their physical workplaces on Monday, January 26. State employees are urged to work remotely where possible. This measure is intended to reduce road congestion and ensure public safety during the peak of the storm, which is expected to bring between 12 and 22 inches of snow to the Greater Boston area. The Monday morning commute is expected to be especially hazardous, and travel is strongly discouraged.

Public Health and Emergency Shelters

Following the extreme cold advisory and snow emergency, the Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) continues to coordinate with a network of emergency shelters, which remain open 24 hours a day. Outreach providers and first responders are actively assisting vulnerable populations and those experiencing homelessness. Men requiring shelter should report to the 112 Southampton Street Shelter, and women should go to the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Ave. Residents are urged to check on elderly neighbors and individuals with disabilities during these extreme weather conditions.

Public Meeting Notices

Despite the closure of municipal buildings, official city business continues through virtual platforms. The following public meetings remain scheduled for Monday, January 26, 2026:

  • Architectural Access Board Meeting: This meeting will take place virtually from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to review variances and other accessibility matters, including hearings for White Stadium.
  • Additional Public Notices: Virtual public testimony sessions and general notices are scheduled for 10:45 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Residents wishing to participate should consult the virtual login credentials provided on the city's public notice board.