Thawing Ice Causing Dangerous Conditions, Costly Home Repairs in Boston

Experts warn of falling ice blocks and growing ice dams as winter storms continue

Jan. 30, 2026 at 3:47pm

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Large chunks of ice are falling from rooftops across Boston, leading to close calls for pedestrians and expensive home repairs. Ice dams, formed when snow melts and refreezes at the edge of roofs, are causing water damage inside homes as the ice prevents proper drainage. Roofing companies from the Midwest have been brought in to help clear the dangerous ice buildup, but experts caution against homeowners attempting to remove the ice themselves due to the safety risks.

Why it matters

The dangerous conditions caused by thawing ice highlight the challenges Boston residents face during harsh New England winters. As climate change leads to more extreme weather, these types of ice-related issues may become more common, raising concerns about public safety and the financial burden on homeowners.

The details

Neighbors across Boston have reported large chunks of ice falling from rooftops onto sidewalks below, narrowly missing pedestrians. Ice dams, which form when melting snow refreezes at the edge of roofs, are causing water damage inside homes as the backed-up ice prevents proper drainage. Roofing companies from Minnesota have brought in 12 teams to help clear the ice, using steam or melting methods. Experts warn that attempting to remove the ice yourself can be dangerous and lead to further damage.

  • On Friday, a portion of a sidewalk on Milford Street in the South End was taped off after several frozen blocks plunged down five stories.
  • The last time RTD ice dam removal visited Boston was during the record-breaking winter of 2015, when the city saw 110 inches of snow.

The players

Mike Hilborn

An employee of RTD ice dam removal, a Minnesota-based company that has brought in 12 teams to help clear the dangerous ice buildup in Boston.

Anna Rothman

A South End resident who narrowly avoided being struck by a large chunk of ice that fell from a nearby rooftop.

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What they’re saying

“It prevents water from exiting your roof because roofs aren't waterproof. Usually, it goes inside your house. It starts coming through your ceiling and buckling your floors.”

— Mike Hilborn, Employee, RTD ice dam removal

“It's so scary seeing so much ice falling from the roof. The chunks are really big, and they're falling from very high roofs.”

— Anna Rothman (Boston 25 News)

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.