Snow in the Washington D.C. region and closures

From coast to coast, the United States is grappling with a major winter storm system that’s putting much of the country on high alert. Snow, sleet, and ice are piling up in parts of the Midwest and Northeast, while frigid Arctic air has pushed temperatures well below normal across large swaths of the country. Flights are delayed, highways are slick, and communities from Texas to New England are adjusting to dangerous travel conditions and power concerns.

In Washington, D.C., the storm has already started leaving its mark, with accumulating snow and ice forcing museum closures, transit delays, and limited public services, reminding residents that winter is still very much in charge this month.

Closures in Washington, DC Region

A winter storm is sweeping through the region, prompting the closure of several key cultural institutions and public services on Sunday, January 25, Monday, January 26, 2026 and Tuesday, January 27, 2026.

Smithsonian Institutions Closed Sunday and Monday

As a result of the winter storm, several key institutions and public facilities in Washington, D.C. will be closed on Sunday, January 25, Monday, January 26, 2026 and Tuesday, January 27, 2026. This includes all Smithsonian museums, research centers, and the National Zoo. If you had plans to visit the Natural History Museum, the National Air and Space Museum, or the Zoo, you will need to reschedule. Additionally, local libraries, recreation centers, and many government offices across the region will be temporarily closed to ensure the safety of staff and the public. For the most current information on closures, visit the Smithsonian Institution website.

Public Transportation Updates

Traveling around the city will also be affected. While Metro (subway) and bus services remain operational, schedules may be limited, and some routes could be delayed or rerouted. For the latest updates on Metro (subway) and bus services in the Washington, D.C. area, including delays, route changes, and service alerts, visit the WMATA Service Status page. Checking this page before traveling can help you plan your trips safely during the winter storm.

Roads will be slick, sidewalks icy, and conditions can change rapidly throughout the day. Bundling up, allowing extra travel time, and staying updated are strongly recommended.

AccuWeather provides up-to-date information on local weather, including winter storms, ice, and extreme cold, helping residents and visitors make informed decisions about travel, plans, and safety during rapidly changing conditions.

Winter weather in the Washington, D.C. area can impact travel with little notice. The resources below can help you stay informed and plan ahead by providing timely updates on transportation and service disruptions across the region.

You can find this information by visiting DC In the Winter and In Cases of Chance of Snow.

• Flight status at DCA, IAD, and BWI
• Train schedules and alerts (Amtrak / Union Station)
• Local transit updates (WMATA Metro (subway) and bus service)
• Best sources for real-time closure alerts (TV, radio, and local apps)