Boston is buried under a blanket of snow, and Mayor Michelle Wu has made a tough call: all Boston Public Schools will remain closed on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. This decision comes after a whopping 15 inches of snowfall in the past 24 hours, with more on the way. But here's where it gets tricky – while the snowplows are working overtime, the city is prioritizing safety for everyone, especially children and families. And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about clearing the roads; it's about ensuring sidewalks are safe and accessible for all. The city's crews need an extra day to widen main roadways and clear sidewalks, making it safer for the 700-bus fleet and pedestrians to navigate the streets. Boston Public Library branches, senior centers, and Boston Centers for Youth & Families will reopen at noon on Tuesday, but the snow emergency and parking ban will remain in effect until at least 6 p.m. that day. Is this the right call, or should the city have found a way to keep schools open? Weigh in below!
The city is also taking steps to support its most vulnerable residents during this winter storm. Boston Public Health Commission’s emergency shelters are open 24/7, providing a warm haven for those in need. When temperatures drop below freezing, amnesty is granted for individuals with nonviolent restrictions, ensuring everyone has a safe place to stay. Men can find shelter at 112 Southampton Street, while women can seek refuge at the Woods Mullen Shelter on Massachusetts Ave. The BPHC has been working tirelessly, sheltering nearly 600 people last night and 250 today, and preparing close to 1,300 meals since the winter emergency began. Outreach teams will be actively checking on individuals and offering transport to shelters throughout the day and night. If you see someone in need, don’t hesitate to call 911 – it could save a life.
But here's a controversial point: With more snow expected later this week, the city is urging residents to shovel their sidewalks and crosswalks promptly. Property owners are responsible for clearing a 42-inch path, and violations will be issued for non-compliance. However, some argue that this places an unfair burden on residents, especially the elderly or those with physical limitations. Should the city provide more support for sidewalk clearing, or is it a reasonable expectation for property owners? Let us know your thoughts!
Curbside trash and recycling services will be delayed by one day across all neighborhoods. Residents can stay updated on collection schedules at boston.gov/trash-day. The Mayor's Office of Neighborhood Services is also organizing citywide snow shoveling meet-ups tomorrow, bringing volunteers together to tackle sidewalks, curb ramps, and other areas of concern. If you're able to lend a hand, visit boston.gov/shovel for more information. For real-time alerts, including cold-weather updates, sign up for Alert Boston at boston.gov/winter.
Mayor Wu expressed her gratitude to the city teams working tirelessly through the nor’easter, saying, ‘We ask that everyone continue to stay safe and warm, look out for your neighbors, and stay off the roads to support our public works and safety teams.’ She also reminded residents to report any issues through the 311 app, whether it’s downed trees, wires, or unshoveled sidewalks after 10 a.m. tomorrow. With more snow on the horizon, it’s a team effort to keep Boston safe and accessible for all. What’s your take on the city’s response to this winter storm? Are there areas where they could improve, or do you think they’ve handled it well? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
