Boston Public Schools Closed Due to Major Snowstorm

City declares snow emergency and parking ban as crews work to clear roads and sidewalks

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Boston Public Schools will be closed on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, following a major snowstorm that has dumped 15 inches of snow in the last 24 hours. Mayor Michelle Wu announced the school closure to allow crews time to clear sidewalks and roadways for the safety of students, families, and the city's bus fleet. A snow emergency and parking ban remain in effect until at least 6 p.m. on Tuesday.

Why it matters

Closing schools and declaring a snow emergency are critical steps to ensure public safety and maintain essential city functions during severe winter weather. This coordinated response involving schools, libraries, public health services, and public works demonstrates Boston's comprehensive approach to managing the impact of major snowstorms.

The details

Boston Public Schools, Boston Public Library branches, senior centers, and Boston Centers for Youth & Families will be closed on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. All other municipal buildings and city services will operate on their regular schedules. The Boston Public Health Commission sheltered nearly 600 guests last night and has provided close to 1,300 meals since the start of the winter emergency. Residents are urged to stay safe, look out for neighbors, and avoid unnecessary travel to support public works and public safety teams. Curbside trash and recycling will be delayed this week, with all neighborhoods experiencing a one-day delay.

  • In the last 24 hours, 15 inches of snowfall has accumulated in Boston.
  • The snow emergency and parking ban will remain in effect until at least 6 p.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
  • Residents have until 10 a.m. on Tuesday to clear sidewalks, and unshoveled sidewalks can be reported via 311.
  • The Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services will host citywide snow shoveling meet-ups on Tuesday.

The players

Michelle Wu

The Mayor of Boston who announced the school closures and snow emergency.

Boston Public Health Commission

The organization that has sheltered nearly 600 guests and provided close to 1,300 meals since the start of the winter emergency.

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What they’re saying

“We must prioritize the clearing of roadways and sidewalks after significant snowfall to ensure public safety and maintain essential city functions.”

— Expert (newsy-today.com)

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 storm highlights the importance of Boston's comprehensive approach to managing severe winter weather, from school closures and snow emergency declarations to coordinated efforts to clear roads, sidewalks, and provide essential services and shelter to residents. As the city prepares for additional snowfall this week, maintaining this balance between public safety and access to essential services will be crucial.