In a surprising turn of events, the inauguration ceremony for President-elect Donald Trump has shifted indoors due to extremely cold weather expected in Washington, D.C. Instead of the typical outdoor event on the Capitol’s west front, the ceremony will now take place inside the Capitol Rotunda. This decision, made in response to Arctic temperatures, has left some supporters feeling disappointed, especially those who traveled from far and wide to take part in the festivities.
Frigid Weather Changes Plans
As temperatures are projected to dive to a low of 6°F with a high of only 23°F, the forecast has prompted officials to make necessary changes for safety and comfort. For many who have lined up to support President Trump, the announcement that the inauguration will not be a vibrant outdoor celebration was a let-down. Some supporters expressed how they were looking forward to standing outside and witnessing this historic moment firsthand.
Public Viewing at Capital One Arena
To accommodate disappointed fans, a public viewing event is being set up at the nearby Capital One Arena, which can hold up to 20,000 people. This alternative option allows supporters to come together and watch the ceremony on large screens instead. Nevertheless, remarks from attendees highlight that the indoor move is still not what they had hoped for, with fans like Jose Granado and George Gonzalez from Miami calling it a real “bummer.”
Snow is on the Horizon
In addition to the bitter cold, a winter storm is expected to hit the region, bringing with it a possibility of snow on Sunday. The chance of receiving 2 to 4 inches in the D.C. area has skyrocketed to 70%. This impending snowfall poses further challenges for those traveling to the inauguration. The weather could lead to difficult road conditions and delays for supporters trying to make their way to the events.
Reflecting on Past Inaugurations
In contrast to previous inauguration days which often featured milder weather, this year’s forecast stands out as particularly harsh. Washington D.C.’s weather during past inaugurations has shown a mix, but nothing so extreme as what’s predicted for this week. This past warmth might be why many supporters came prepared for an outdoor event, only to face a chilly disappointment this time around.
What’s Next for Trump Supporters?
While many are feeling the chill about the move inside, President Trump’s inaugural team has promised that the ceremony will not lose any of its significance. They aim to ensure that the event remains a memorable occasion despite the weather woes. Additionally, a Trump rally is planned for Sunday at Capital One Arena, which provides another opportunity for supporters to gather and celebrate, albeit under different circumstances than anticipated.
A Closer Look at the Weather
| Day | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Chance of Snow |
|---|---|---|---|
| January 20 (Inauguration Day) | 23 | 6 | 60% |
| January 19 (Day Before) | – | – | 70% for 2-4 inches |
As the day draws closer, weather reports remain constant, underlining the importance of preparation for everyone involved. It remains to be seen how the weather will shape the overall atmosphere during the inauguration, but many are hoping for the best amidst the cold front moving through.
