Boston’s Winter Challenges: Snowstorm Aftermath and Cold Advisory

Winter Storm Dumps Over a Foot of Snow on Greater Boston

A powerful winter storm struck Greater Boston, dumping over a foot of snow and significantly disrupting daily life across eastern Massachusetts. Since late Sunday morning, the snowfall has led to widespread closures of schools and workplaces. In response, Governor Maura Healey declared Monday a remote work day for non-essential state employees and encouraged private companies to implement remote work as well. Logan Airport reported 16.7 inches of snow by 6 a.m., and East Boston experienced several hours of power outages during the storm’s peak. Authorities are advising residents to avoid driving unless absolutely necessary and to seek assistance by calling 211 in case of power outages, with community warming centers available for those in need.

Cold Weather Advisory Issued Amidst Snowstorm Aftermath

Boston remains under a cold weather advisory through Saturday, January 31, 2026, as bitter cold and hazardous wind chills persist following a major winter storm that dropped about 58 cm (23 inches) of snow, placing it among the city’s top 10 snowfall totals on record. Mayor Michelle Wu announced the advisory as the National Weather Service forecast wind chills dropping to as low as -21°C (−5°F) overnight into Saturday. City officials said the prolonged cold increases the risk of snow freezing into ice, creating hazardous conditions for pedestrians and vehicles if snow is not cleared promptly. The City of Boston issues a cold advisory when one or more days of observed wind chill at or below 0°F (−18°C) are expected. While current forecasts do not meet the threshold for declaring a cold emergency, officials warned that exposure to extreme cold increases the risk of hypothermia and frostbite, particularly among people experiencing homelessness, older adults, young children, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Why It Matters Locally

The combination of heavy snowfall and extreme cold temperatures poses significant challenges for Boston residents, affecting daily routines, transportation, and public safety.

Sources

• Winter storm dumps over a foot of snow on Greater Boston
• Cold Weather Advisory issued in Boston as extreme wind chills follow major snowstorm