Official City Notice: Cold Emergency and Public Health Advisories
Cold Emergency Declared Through Sunday
Mayor Michelle Wu has officially declared a cold emergency for the City of Boston, effective from Friday, January 23, through Sunday, January 25, 2026. This declaration follows National Weather Service forecasts predicting wind chills as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit throughout Saturday morning. The City’s cold emergency protocols are triggered when wind chills are expected to reach these dangerous levels for one day or more, posing a significant risk of frostbite and hypothermia.
In response, Boston Centers for Youth & Families (BCYF) have activated several community centers as warming locations during their normal operating hours. Residents are urged to limit their time outdoors and to dress in multiple layers of loose-fitting clothing. The Mayor's office specifically requests that residents check on neighbors who may be vulnerable, including older adults and people with disabilities. If you encounter an individual experiencing homelessness who requires assistance, please call 911 immediately to coordinate emergency shelter and transport.
Public Health Advisory: Seasonal Flu Surge
The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has issued an urgent advisory regarding a severe surge in seasonal influenza cases. Recent data indicates a 126% increase in confirmed cases over the past month, with pediatric hospitalizations nearly doubling compared to the same period last season. Following the reporting of four pediatric flu-related deaths across the Commonwealth this month, health officials are emphasizing the necessity of vaccination.
For Saturday, January 24, the City is providing the following services:
- Free Vaccination Clinics: Free flu and COVID-19 vaccinations are available at several neighborhood sites to all residents aged six months and older.
- Medical Guidance: Parents are advised to seek immediate medical care if children exhibit signs of severe illness, such as difficulty breathing, decreased urination, or extreme lethargy.
Service Schedules and Neighborhood Impacts
Public works and transportation services have updated their schedules to account for the current weather conditions and ongoing maintenance projects:
- Trash and Recycling: Collections are currently delayed in several neighborhoods. Residents should leave their bins out but expect later-than-usual pickup times.
- Street Cleaning: Street cleaning services are operating on a normal schedule today. Residents must adhere to posted signs to avoid ticketing.
- Parking Regulations: Parking meters remain active and are running on their normal Saturday schedules. The City’s tow lot is closed today, though automated kiosks remain available 24/7 for vehicle releases.
Recreation and Community Events
While some outdoor activities have been adjusted for the cold, the following City-sponsored programs are scheduled for Saturday, January 24:
- Parks Fitness: Yoga with Carlos and the Saturday Walking Group with Brandy will proceed as planned, with participants encouraged to use indoor facilities where available.
- Snowshoeing Safari: This seasonal outdoor event remains active in designated parks for those equipped for the cold.
- Age Strong Memory Cafe: A session for seniors and caregivers will be held in Jamaica Plain to provide community support and engagement.