As winter’s chill settles over Washington, D.C., preparations for President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration have hit a snag. The event, originally planned to take place outdoors on the Capitol’s west front, will now be held indoors at the Capitol Rotunda due to dangerously cold arctic temperatures. This change has left many supporters feeling disappointed, as they had braved the winter weather to attend this important occasion.
Blizzard of Emotions Among Supporters
Supporters traveled from far and wide to share in the celebration of Trump’s inauguration, only to find themselves facing bitter cold and changing plans. Many expressed their feelings about the abrupt switch while standing in the bustling D.C. streets. “It’s a bummer! We came here to see history, not to freeze,” said two friends who made the journey from Miami. Other attendees, like a family from Oklahoma, voiced similar sentiments, wishing they had stayed home warm and cozy instead.
Temperatures Take a Dive
On Inauguration Day, the mercury is expected to plunge, indicating a high of just 23°F and a bone-chilling low of 6°F. Such temperatures are well below the average January high of 45°F in D.C., making this inauguration one of the coldest in history. The cold front sweeping across the northern Plains and Midwest has left many wondering: how does the weather affect major events like this?
Plan B in Place
With the inauguration moving indoors, a public viewing will be held at Capital One Arena, which accommodates up to 20,000 visitors. This means that not all supporters will get to enjoy the ceremony from the Capitol Rotunda. Instead, they will need to tune in via a live broadcast at the arena or watch from home. Trump himself mentioned that he “ordered” the change, prioritizing people’s safety amid these extreme weather conditions.
Events Leading Up to the Big Day
Before the inauguration takes place, there will also be a Trump rally at the Capital One Arena, giving fans one more opportunity to rally together, despite the challenges posed by the weather. For those attending, dressing warmly and planning ahead is essential; icy sidewalks and frigid air mean that layers of clothing will be the best defense against the cold.
What to Expect on Inauguration Day
While the weather may change plans, the enthusiasm among supporters remains strong. Inauguration speeches, celebrations, and music will still take place, just in a different location. As the day draws closer, excitement builds, bringing together stories of those who’ve traveled to witness this historical event. Supporters remain hopeful that the spirit of the day will shine through, regardless of the weather.
| Location | Date | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington, D.C. | Jan 18 | 47 | 31 | 30% chance of rain |
| Washington, D.C. | Jan 19 | 34 | 17 | 60% chance of snow |
| Washington, D.C. | Jan 20 | 23 | 6 | Sunny and clear |
| New York City | Jan 18 | 44 | 34 | 50% chance of rain |
| New York City | Jan 19 | 36 | 21 | 1-3 inches of snow likely |
| New York City | Jan 20 | 26 | 10 | Sunny and cold |
Historical Context
This year’s inauguration is not the first time weather has influenced the event. Historically, temperatures have varied significantly, with the coldest inauguration taking place back in 1985 when temperatures hovered around 17°F. On the other hand, the warmest was in 1981, reaching 55°F. Each inauguration has its unique story, and weather plays a memorable role in shaping those experiences.
