Mayor Bowser Announces 10 A.M. Opening and School Closures Amid Severe Cold
Mayor Bowser Announces 10 A.M. Opening and School Closures Amid Severe Cold
Mayor Muriel Bowser has announced significant changes to the District’s operating posture for Tuesday, January 27, 2026, as the city continues to grapple with extreme cold and the aftermath of recent snowfall. With temperatures plummeting and a snow emergency remaining in effect, the Mayor’s office has prioritized public safety and road clearance operations to manage the hazardous conditions affecting the region.
Government and School Operations
District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) are officially closed today. Families with children in public charter schools have been advised to check with their individual campuses for specific closure notices or shifts to virtual learning. For District government employees, a delayed start has been implemented, with offices officially opening at 10:00 a.m. Mayor Bowser has encouraged supervisors to grant liberal leave for non-essential employees who may face significant commuting challenges due to the weather conditions.
Snow Emergency and Public Works
The District’s snow emergency has been officially extended through 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 28. This extension means that parking restrictions remain active on all designated snow emergency routes. Vehicles parked on these routes are subject to being ticketed and towed to ensure that the city’s Snow Team can continue clearing major thoroughfares and emergency paths. Additionally, the Department of Public Works has suspended all trash, recycling, and food waste collection for today. Residents are requested to keep their bins off the curbs until a revised collection schedule is announced later this week.
Extreme Cold Alert and Safety
An Extreme Cold Alert remains active for the District. The city has opened several hypothermia shelters to provide warm, safe spaces for residents experiencing homelessness. Transportation to these shelters is available via the city's Shelter Hotline. Mayor Bowser has urged residents to stay vigilant, check on elderly neighbors, and keep pets indoors as the frigid temperatures and wind chills persist throughout the day.
Congressional Oversight and Federal Activity
Despite the modified local government posture, some federal and legislative activities focused on the District remain on the calendar. On Capitol Hill, the Senate Subcommittee on Disaster Management, District of Columbia, and Census is scheduled to convene at 3:00 p.m. in the Dirksen Senate Office Building. The subcommittee will hold a hearing to examine fraud within state and federal programs, a session with significant implications for District oversight and intergovernmental fiscal management. Additionally, the Federal Reserve Board is scheduled to hold a closed-door meeting at 10:00 a.m. at its Washington headquarters to discuss pressing monetary policy issues.