Washington, D.C., Jan 18, (V7N) – Donald J. Trump’s inauguration ceremony, set for Monday, January 20, will be moved indoors due to dangerously cold weather, the president-elect announced on Friday. The decision comes as an Arctic blast sweeps across the country, bringing severe record-low temperatures to the nation’s capital.
 
“The weather forecast for Washington, D.C., with the windchill factor, could take temperatures into severe record lows,” Trump stated. “There is an Arctic blast sweeping the country, and I don’t want to see people hurt or injured in any way.” He emphasized that the cold poses risks not only for the large crowds of spectators but also for law enforcement, first responders, and animals that would be outside for extended periods.
 
As a result, Trump ordered the inauguration address, prayers, and other speeches to be delivered inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda, similar to what was done during Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985, when cold weather forced a similar decision. The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies confirmed the change, stating that the ceremony would be held indoors at the president-elect’s request.
 
In 1985, Washington, D.C. experienced a bitter cold with overnight temperatures dropping to -3°F, and the daytime high only reached 17°F. This year, the forecast calls for a high of around 20°F with wind gusts up to 30 mph, creating wind chill temperatures in the single digits throughout the day. By evening, temperatures are expected to fall below zero. These conditions will make this inauguration the coldest on record for January 20, according to meteorologist Sara Tonks.
 
The National Weather Service notes that the average afternoon high temperature in Washington, D.C. on January 20 is typically 45°F, with a low of 30°F. At noon, when the presidential oath is usually taken, the temperature averages around 37°F.
 
In 1985, President Reagan cited warnings from medical and military experts that exposed skin could freeze in just five to 10 minutes, which led to the decision to move his second inauguration indoors. Reagan stressed that the health and safety of those attending must take priority over any celebration. Many agreed with his decision, including Peter LaFlamme, director of the Spartan Drum and Bugle Corps, who stated, “It wasn’t human to have it.”
 
With the move to the U.S. Capitol, Trump’s inauguration will be held indoors, ensuring the safety of those involved while still allowing the event to proceed despite the extreme cold.
 
END/SMA/NYC/AJ/