Washington, D.C. News Brief for January 31, 2026

Partial Federal Government Shutdown Begins

Washington, DC — January 31, 2026 — A partial federal government shutdown commenced today as Congress failed to pass appropriations legislation for the 2026 fiscal year. The shutdown impacts several departments, including Homeland Security, Defense, and Education. President Trump and Senate Democrats reached an agreement to separate the Department of Homeland Security funding bill, passing a package containing other bills and a two-week continuing resolution for DHS. However, the House will not vote on the revised agreement until February 2, leading to the shutdown.

Arctic Air and Snow Cleanup in the DMV

Residents and crews in the Washington, D.C. area are working to clear ice and snow from neighborhood roads amid bitter cold temperatures. The region is enduring a stretch of subfreezing days, with temperatures reaching as low as 12°F. Snow removal operations are ongoing, and residents are advised to wear layers and take safety precautions.

Upcoming Events in Washington, D.C.

Several events are scheduled for today, January 31, 2026, including:

• National Symphony Orchestra: Le Poème Divin Brahms Double Concerto at 8:00 pm at the Kennedy Center Concert Hall.
• Super Diamond – The Neil Diamond Tribute at 8:00 pm at the 9:30 Club.
• Levity presents LASERSHIP at 7:00 pm at The Anthem.

For more details on these events, visit the respective venues’ websites.

Today in History: U.S. Declares Public Health Emergency Over Coronavirus

On January 31, 2020, the United States declared a public health emergency over the new coronavirus, and President Donald Trump signed an order to temporarily bar entry to foreign nationals who had traveled in China in the preceding 14 days.

Sources

• 2026 United States federal government shutdown
• DC Weather LIVE UPDATES: Arctic air locks in across the DMV Friday as snow cleanup drags on
• Today in History: January 31, US declares public health emergency over coronavirus