WORCESTER—City officials have declared a winter weather emergency ahead of a major storm expected to bring extreme cold, heavy snowfall, and potentially dangerous conditions across Worcester beginning Friday night.
According to a city announcement, the emergency takes effect at 4 p.m. Friday, Jan. 23, as forecasters warn of subzero temperatures with wind chills as low as minus 20 degrees, along with snowfall totals projected between 18 and 25 inches. Strong winds could produce blizzard-like conditions with near-zero visibility through Monday, Jan. 26.
As part of the emergency declaration, residents are being asked to avoid city streets beginning at 6 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 25, unless travel is necessary for an emergency.
In response to the anticipated cold, the city is opening an emergency winter overflow shelter and warming center at Worcester Technical High School beginning at 5 p.m. Friday. The shelter is expected to remain open until 3 p.m. Monday.
A declared winter parking ban will take effect at 1 a.m. Sunday. To support compliance, all municipal parking garages will be free to vehicles entering after 8 p.m. Saturday until the ban is lifted, with the exception of special event parking, which will remain subject to event rates.
“Residents’ safety is my top priority,” City Manager Eric D. Batista said in the city’s announcement. “We ask that people practice patience as DPW crews work to keep the streets clear for emergency vehicles. Please remain off the streets unless travel is an emergency. City crews will be working tirelessly overnight and through Monday to ensure the safety of all.”
During the parking ban, vehicles will be prohibited from parking on either side of main arteries, emergency and bus routes, and downtown streets critical to traffic flow. On other streets, parking will be limited to the odd-numbered side unless otherwise posted. The city advises residents to check street-specific restrictions online.
City officials noted that towing and ticketing may be enforced to keep roadways clear. Residents with questions or seeking to locate a towed vehicle are encouraged to contact Worcester 311.
Trash and recycling collection will be delayed on Monday, resulting in a one-day delay for the remainder of the week, and Worcester City Hall will be closed.
In addition, Worcester Public Schools will be closed on Monday, Jan. 26, officials announced, citing the anticipated severity of the storm. The day had already been scheduled as a no-school day for students due to a staff professional development day; however, that professional development has now been canceled and will be rescheduled for a later date. School staff are not required to report to work Monday, and Worcester Public Schools administrative offices will also be closed. Essential personnel are expected to report as directed by their supervisors.
Officials also reminded residents that property owners have up to 10 hours after the end of the storm to clear snow and ice from sidewalks abutting their property. Those who are able are encouraged to clear snow from fire hydrants and catch basins, and residents are asked not to place snow in the street.
With dangerously cold temperatures expected, the city urged residents to take precautions to prevent frostbite, safely heat their homes, protect indoor pipes from freezing, and check on neighbors, particularly elders. Residents are also encouraged to keep pets indoors and limit outdoor exposure.
Because ALERTWorcester remains down, officials said updates will be shared through the city’s website and social media channels as conditions evolve.
Additional information about parking bans, snow removal policies, and winter safety resources is available through Worcester 311 and on the city’s website.
