By: Jerry Filmore
The City of Worcester has declared a Winter Weather Emergency effective at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, 2026. The declaration comes in response to a forecasted storm expected to bring between 18 and 25 inches of heavy snow, strong winds, and subzero temperatures with windchills reaching as low as negative 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
City officials warned that the storm may create blizzard conditions with near zero visibility from Friday night through Monday, January 26. As part of the emergency measures, residents are requested to avoid city streets starting at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, January 25.
Emergency Shelter and Warming Center
To protect residents from the extreme cold, the municipality is opening an emergency winter overflow shelter and warming center at Worcester Technical High School. The facility opened at 5:00 p.m. on Friday, January 23, and will remain operational until 3:00 p.m. on Monday, January 26.
City Manager Eric D. Batista emphasized that resident safety is the top priority. He asked the public to remain off the streets unless travel is an emergency to allow Department of Public Works crews to clear routes for emergency vehicles.
Parking Ban and Municipal Garages
A Declared Winter Parking Ban will go into effect at 1:00 a.m. on Sunday, January 25. During this ban, parking is prohibited on both sides of main arteries, emergency and bus routes, and downtown streets critical for traffic flow. On all other streets, parking is only permitted on the odd numbered side unless otherwise posted.
To assist residents, all municipal parking garages will be free of charge for any vehicle entering after 8:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 24, until the ban is lifted. The participating garages include:
- Major Taylor Garage – 30 Major Taylor Blvd.
- Federal Plaza Garage – 570 Main St.
- Pearl and Elm Garage – 20 Pearl St.
- Worcester Common Garage – 3 Eaton Place
- Union Station Garage – 225 Franklin St.
Ticketing and towing may be enforced to ensure streets remain clear for plow crews.
Service Disruptions and Safety Reminders
Worcester City Hall will be closed on Monday, January 26. Trash and recycling collection scheduled for Monday will be delayed by one day, creating a one day delay for the remainder of the week.
The city noted that the ALERTWorcester notification system is currently down. Updates will be shared via the city website and official social media channels.
Residents are reminded that they have 10 hours from the end of the storm to clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property. Officials also requested that residents clear snow from fire hydrants and catch basins if they are able to do so safely. Snow should not be shoveled into the street.
Cold Weather Precautions
Health officials urge residents to limit outdoor exposure, as frostbite can develop in under one minute in these conditions. When heating homes, residents should keep space heaters three feet away from flammable objects and use dedicated outlets. To prevent frozen pipes, it is recommended to open cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate.
For questions or to locate a towed vehicle, residents can contact Worcester 311 by dialing 3-1-1 or emailing 311@worcesterma.gov.
You Can Also Stay Up To Date On Our Weather Page.
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🔍 The W.U.W. Verification Box
Project / Topic: Winter Weather Emergency Declaration Current Status: Emergency effective as of 4:00 p.m., Jan. 23, 2026 Key Dates or Decisions: Parking ban starts 1:00 a.m. Jan. 25; City Hall closed Jan. 26 Estimated Cost (if applicable): Municipal garages free after 8:00 p.m. Jan. 24 Timeline (if known): Storm impacts expected through Monday afternoon, Jan. 26 Immediate Next Steps: Residents should move vehicles to municipal garages or the odd side of the street Primary Sources: City of Worcester Official Press Release
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