Official City Notice: Winter Storm Emergency and Parking Restrictions

Emergency Declaration: Snow and Cold Alert

Mayor Michelle Wu has officially declared a Snow Emergency and a concurrent Cold Emergency for the City of Boston, effective through Sunday, January 25, 2026. Residents are urged to prioritize safety as a significant winter storm is forecasted to bring substantial snowfall and dangerously low temperatures to the region. Public safety officials advise staying indoors whenever possible and checking on neighbors, particularly older adults and those with disabilities.

Parking Ban and Towing Regulations

A citywide parking ban on all major arteries and posted snow emergency routes will take effect today, Sunday, January 25, at 8:00 AM. Key routes including Dorchester Avenue, Blue Hill Avenue, and Washington Street are subject to immediate towing for any vehicles remaining on the street after the deadline. To assist residents, the following accommodations have been made:

• Discounted Parking: Participating city garages began offering discounted rates for vehicles with valid resident stickers starting at 6:00 AM this morning.
• Garages: Residents must remove vehicles from these garages within two hours after the emergency is lifted to avoid standard rates.
• Space Savers: The use of space savers is permitted for up to 48 hours after the snow emergency has ended.

Public Building and School Closures

In response to the storm conditions, Boston City Hall and all other municipal buildings, including Boston Public Library branches and BCYF community centers, are closed today, Sunday, January 25, and will remain closed on Monday, January 26. All Boston Public Schools (BPS) and central offices are also closed for Monday. All BPS-related extracurricular activities, sports, and community programs scheduled for today have been canceled.

Health Advisories and Emergency Shelters

The Cold Emergency remains in effect due to wind chills reaching as low as -10 degrees. The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) has activated its city-wide network of emergency shelters. Shelters are open 24 hours a day, and amnesty is in place for those with non-violent restrictions. Men may seek shelter at 112 Southampton Street, and women should proceed to the Woods Mullen Shelter at 794 Massachusetts Avenue.

Resident Responsibilities and Trash Collection

Property owners are legally required to clear snow, sleet, and ice from sidewalks and curb ramps abutting their property within three hours after the snowfall ends. If snow ends overnight, clearing must be completed within three hours after sunrise. Additionally, curbside trash and recycling collection will operate on a one-day delay throughout the coming week due to the Monday closure.