Boston Issues Cold Weather Advisory After Major Snowstorm

Extreme wind chills and hazardous conditions persist following 23-inch snowfall.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 11:23am

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Boston remains under a cold weather advisory through Saturday, January 31, 2026, as bitter cold and hazardous wind chills continue after a major winter storm dropped about 58 cm (23 inches) of snow across the city. The Public Works Department is working to clear streets and improve visibility, while emergency shelters and warming centers are open to assist vulnerable residents.

Why it matters

The extreme cold weather following the snowstorm poses serious risks, especially for people experiencing homelessness, older adults, young children, and those with underlying health conditions. Ensuring public safety and access to shelter and warming centers is crucial during these hazardous conditions.

The details

The City of Boston issued the cold advisory due to expected wind chills at or below 0°F (-18°C), which increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite. While the cold does not yet meet the threshold for a cold emergency, officials are urging caution. The snowstorm on January 25-26 ranked as the city's eighth-largest on record, with 58 cm (23 inches) of accumulation. Public Works crews are working to clear intersections and bus routes, and overnight snow removal operations are underway. Emergency shelters and warming centers are open, and residents are advised to take precautions against frozen pipes and carbon monoxide risks.

  • The cold weather advisory is in effect through Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • The major snowstorm occurred primarily on Sunday, January 25, and into Monday, January 26, 2026.
  • Overnight snow removal operations are scheduled from 22:00–05:00 local time.

The players

City of Boston

The local government of Boston, Massachusetts, which issued the cold weather advisory and is coordinating emergency response efforts.

Boston Public Works Department

The city agency responsible for treating and clearing streets, improving visibility at intersections, and ensuring safe access for pedestrians and vehicles.

Boston Public Health Commission

The city agency that operates emergency shelters and coordinates street outreach efforts to assist vulnerable residents during the cold weather period.

Boston Centers for Youth & Families

The city agency that operates community centers and facilities that are open as daytime warming centers during the cold weather.

Boston Public Library

The city's public library system, with the Central Library in Copley Square and all branch locations serving as daytime warming centers.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.