FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 01/23/2026
For further information, contact:
Susan Scully Petroni
City of Framingham Public Information Officer
spetroni@framinghamma.gov
508-782-8629
Arctic Cold Temperatures Forecasted; How To Prevent Frozen Pipes
FRAMINGHAM - The National Weather Service in Boston/Norton has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for much of southern New England. The advisory remains in effect from 10 p.m. this evening through 10 a.m. Saturday.
Very cold wind chills as low as 15 degrees below zero are expected.
These conditions can be dangerous, and frostbite and hypothermia may occur quickly if unprotected skin is exposed to the cold.
At this time, the City of Framingham has no plans to open a warming center, according to the Framingham Police Department.
However, the main Framingham Public Library on Lexington Street will be open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Christa McAuliffe Library branch will be open on Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Both libraries will be closed on Sunday, due to the pending snowstorm.
Cold Weather Safety Tips
Residents are urged to take precautions if spending time outdoors:
- Wear appropriate winter clothing, including a coat, hat, gloves, scarf, and insulated footwear
- Limit time outdoors when possible
- Use caution while traveling
- Check on elderly neighbors, family members, and anyone vulnerable to extreme cold
Preventing Frozen Pipes
Extreme cold can cause household pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly water damage. Residents can reduce the risk by taking the following steps:
- Keep your home adequately heated, even if you are away
- Insulate exposed water pipes, especially in basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls
- Open kitchen and bathroom cabinet doors to allow warm air to circulate around plumbing
- Inspect and maintain gutters and roofs to prevent ice buildup and water pooling
- Allow faucets to drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving
Residents are also encouraged to review their homeowners or renters insurance policies to confirm coverage for sudden and accidental water damage from burst pipes.
If You Experience Problems
- Burst pipe or water emergency: Contact the Framingham Fire Department
- Loss of heat (homeowners): Contact your utility company immediately
- Loss of heat (tenants): Notify your landlord or property manager right away
The City of Framingham encourages residents to take this advisory seriously and prepare now to stay safe during this period of extreme cold.
###