Washington, DC — February 3, 2026 — Local News Update

President Trump Signs Budget Bill Ending Partial Government Shutdown

On February 3, 2026, President Donald Trump signed a $1.2 trillion budget bill, bringing an end to a brief partial federal government shutdown. The legislation funds most federal agencies through September 30, though the Department of Homeland Security received only short-term funding, setting up future debates on immigration and ICE oversight. President Trump also met with Colombian President Gustavo Petro to discuss drug policy, Venezuela’s reintegration, and bilateral cooperation. Petro criticized the UN’s narcotics reporting and asserted that the real drug “kingpins” live abroad, naming cities like Miami and Dubai.

DC Public Schools Open on Time Amid Extreme Cold

Despite ongoing extreme cold conditions, DC Public Schools opened on time on Tuesday, February 3, 2026. The previous day, schools had a two-hour delay due to the cold. The DC government continues to monitor the situation and has opened hypothermia shelters to ensure there are warm, safe places for those experiencing homelessness. Residents are encouraged to call the Shelter Hotline at 202-399-7093 or dial 311 to request free, accessible transportation to shelter.

Potomac Interceptor Cleanup Efforts Continue

DC Water is actively working to clean the Potomac Interceptor, a 72-inch sewer line that collapsed along Clara Barton Parkway and the 495 interchange in Montgomery County, Maryland, two weeks ago. Cleaning efforts are ongoing to remove debris and obstructions inside the damaged section of the sewer line. While the vast majority of flows have been contained, the cleanup is expected to take multiple days based on the type of debris found and potential for additional debris filling the pipe from the collapse site. A timeline for repair has not yet been determined.

Weather Alert: Light Snow Possible Tonight

The National Weather Service has issued a Special Weather Statement for the Washington and Baltimore Metropolitan areas, northern Virginia, central and southern Maryland, and the Virginia Piedmont. Light snow is likely tonight, with total accumulations of a coating to 1 inch. Snow is expected to move into the area later this evening through early tomorrow morning, potentially impacting the morning commute. Drivers are advised to use extra caution during the Wednesday morning commute, as roads could become slippery.

Upcoming Events in Washington, DC

Looking ahead, the Freedom 250 Grand Prix is set to take place in August 2026. This IndyCar race will be held on a street circuit in Washington, D.C., as part of the 2026 IndyCar Series. The event was officially announced on January 30, 2026, with President Trump signing an executive order authorizing the race. The order instructed the Secretary of the Interior and the Secretary of Transportation to design the course layout within 14 days and to expedite all necessary permits and approvals.

Sources

• The Latest: Trump signs budget bill bringing an end to partial government shutdown
• DC Public Schools to Open on Two-Hour Delay on Monday, February 2 and On Time on Tuesday, February 3
• UPDATE: Potomac Interceptor Overflow, February 2, 2026
• WEATHER ALERT: Chance of snow early Wednesday
• Freedom 250 Grand Prix