Dangerous Road Conditions: Major Snowstorm Paralyzes Boston Travel on Monday

Severe Winter Storm Triggers Snow Emergency and Travel Restrictions

Boston is currently navigating a major Snow Emergency as a powerful winter storm hammers the region with heavy snowfall and dangerous winds. Mayor Michelle Wu has declared a citywide parking ban, which remains in effect on all major arteries and main roads throughout Monday, January 26, 2026. Vehicles parked on these designated routes will be ticketed and towed to ensure that emergency plowing operations can proceed without obstruction. Residents with valid parking stickers are encouraged to utilize discounted parking garages while the city handles accumulations expected to reach up to 24 inches in some neighborhoods.

Road Conditions and Highway Alerts

Travel conditions on major highways, including I-93, I-90 (the Mass Pike), and Route 1, are described as hazardous. MassDOT and DCR plowing crews are operating at full capacity across the city's main corridors, but visibility remains extremely low due to blowing snow. Massachusetts State Police have already reported responding to over 140 crashes since the storm intensified. Governor Maura Healey has directed non-emergency state employees to work remotely or stay home and is strongly urging all residents to stay off the roads to allow emergency vehicles and snowplows priority access. Public safety officials have specifically warned drivers not to crowd the plows, as several accidents involving clearing equipment have already been reported across the state.

• Storrow Drive & Memorial Drive: Frequent intermittent closures are expected for snow removal; expect significant drifting near the river.
• Canterbury Street Bridge: This bridge in Roslindale remains closed to all vehicular traffic following a prior structural inspection; detours are heavily impacted by snow.
• Main Arteries: Active towing is currently underway on all designated emergency routes; expect heavy machinery and low speeds if travel is unavoidable.

MBTA Public Transit and Service Disruptions

The MBTA has implemented severe weather protocols to manage the storm's impact on the transit network. Commuter Rail service is currently running on a reduced "Storm Schedule" across all lines, meaning significantly fewer trains than a standard weekday. Commuters should expect widespread delays as crews work to keep tracks and switches clear of ice and snow.

• Mattapan Line: High-speed trolley service is suspended; operations have been replaced by shuttle buses to protect vintage equipment from the heavy snow.
• Orange Line: Commuters should prepare for substantial delays; a disabled train earlier this morning at State Street has caused significant headways.
• Subway Service: The Red, Blue, and Green lines are operating with weather-related delays; North Station is currently experiencing escalator and elevator maintenance issues.
• Bus Routes: Numerous bus routes have transitioned to "Snow Routes," bypassing narrow streets and steep hills for safety.
• Ferry Service: Hingham, Hull, and Logan routes are limited to hourly service; the Charlestown ferry is running every 30 minutes.

Official Advisories and Closures

All Boston Public Schools are closed today, and extracurricular programs have been canceled. Boston City Hall and municipal buildings are closed to the public, though online services remain active. Residents are reminded to clear snow from sidewalk ramps and fire hydrants near their properties once it is safe to do so. Travel is expected to remain difficult through the evening commute as the storm continues into the night.