As the sun rises in Washington, D.C., supporters of President-elect Donald Trump are bracing for much colder temperatures than they might have anticipated. The inauguration ceremony, set to celebrate Trump’s rise to presidency, has undergone significant changes due to extremely low temperatures that are forecasted to hit the area. This surprising news has left many travelers and supporters feeling a bit disheartened, as they prepare to deal with the conditions while trying to join in on this historic moment.
Supporters Disappointed by the Shift
Many Trump supporters traveled from various states to be part of the inauguration festivities. However, the unexpected cold snap has changed plans rather dramatically. The ceremony will now take place indoors at the Capitol Rotunda instead of the traditional outdoor setting on the Capitol’s west front due to frigid Arctic temperatures. Two friends who journeyed from Miami have expressed their frustrations, calling the whole situation a “bummer.” Similarly, a family from Oklahoma mentioned that they might as well watch the event on TV instead of braving the cold weather.
Viewing Options for the Public
Although the main event will be held indoors, there’s an option for public viewing at Capital One Arena. This venue can hold up to 20,000 people, but the logistics of how many can fit into the arena remain uncertain. What makes this moment even more intertwined with the weather is the fact that a pre-inauguration rally is also scheduled to occur at the arena on Sunday, which can create a lively atmosphere, despite the frigid conditions outside.
Weather Forecast: Get Ready for the Cold!
The weekend weather forecast shows a chilly outlook for D.C. and its surrounding areas. Snow is predicted to arrive in the Washington, D.C., area on Sunday morning, with a 90% chance of at least one inch of accumulation and a notable 70% chance of accumulating 2 to 4 inches by the end of the day. As temperatures dip, roads may become slippery and a bit tricky, especially as crowds gather for the inauguration events. As per the National Weather Service, the highs will hover around 23°F with lows plunging to 6°F on the day of the inauguration.
Saving the Day with Warm Clothes
As everyone gears up for the inauguration, it’s crucial to dress warmly. Piling on layers and grabbing a reliable pair of gloves and hats can mean the difference between enjoying the celebrations or feeling miserable in the cold. Many are planning to remember this inauguration not just for its historic significance but also for the uncomfortable chill that came with it.
Historical Weather Trends on Inauguration Day
This year’s inauguration weather is markedly colder than the average temperatures we’ve seen in previous years. Historically, Inauguration Day temperatures in Washington, D.C., have varied widely. The coldest was on January 21, 1985, with a high of just 17°F, while 1981 boasted a much warmer high of 55°F. This year’s inauguration could measure up to be one of the chillier events in recent history, causing many to ponder how weather can influence significant national moments.
| Year | High Temperature (°F) | Condition |
|---|---|---|
| 1985 | 17 | Extremely Cold |
| 2009 | 28 | Breezy |
| 2017 | 48 | Light Rain |
| 2025 | 23 | Frigid Arctic Air |
Looking Ahead
As everyone monitors the weather updates with bated breath, both supporters and citizens alike are left wondering if the chill will impact their experience. While the sentiment may be mixed, what’s certain is this inauguration will be remembered for its cold and the changes it prompted. As always, changes in plans may not be ideal, but they often make for an interesting story, and a shared experience that unites communities—even in the cold.
