Severe Cold Moves Trump’s Inauguration Indoors for the First Time in Decades

WASHINGTON, Jan 17 – For the first time in 40 years, a U.S. presidential inauguration will take place indoors due to extreme cold weather conditions. President-elect Donald Trump announced on Friday that the ceremony, originally scheduled to be held outdoors, will be moved to the Capitol Rotunda on Monday. The decision was made to ensure the safety of attendees during the Arctic blast sweeping across the country.

Trump shared his thoughts on the matter through his Truth Social platform, stating, “There is an Arctic blast sweeping the country. I want to ensure that no one gets hurt or faces any harm. Therefore, I have ordered the Inauguration Address, in addition to prayers and other speeches, to be delivered in the United States Capitol Rotunda.”

The last indoor inauguration occurred in 1985, when President Ronald Reagan was sworn in for his second term. That year, the wind chill brought temperatures to an unbearable range of minus 10 to minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit, forcing the event indoors. Similarly, the forecast for Monday predicts frigid temperatures of 19°F (around minus 7°C), with wind chills making it feel even colder.

Adjustments to the Ceremony and Parade

With the inauguration ceremony moving inside, Trump announced additional changes to accommodate his supporters. Viewing screens will be set up inside the Capital One Arena, a downtown venue that can hold approximately 20,000 people. The arena will also serve as the new location for the inaugural parade, initially planned for Pennsylvania Avenue. However, the logistics of organizing a parade within a sports venue remain unclear.

Following his swearing-in, Trump plans to join his supporters at the Capital One Arena to celebrate.

Reduced Crowd Attendance

The indoor relocation drastically limits the number of attendees who can witness the historic event in person. Previously, over 220,000 ticketed guests were expected to view the ceremony from the Capitol grounds, alongside an estimated 250,000 unticketed spectators gathering on the National Mall. With the new venue’s capacity, only a small fraction of these attendees will be able to participate.

Some supporters have already changed their plans due to the reduced viewing opportunities. Tammy Matte, a school secretary from Laurel, Mississippi, shared her disappointment. She, along with her husband and son, decided to cancel their nearly 1,000-mile trip after learning they wouldn’t see Trump in person. “We don’t feel it’s worth it not to see the ceremony in person,” Matte explained.

The National Park Service, responsible for managing the National Mall, has yet to confirm whether large crowds will still be permitted to gather on the Mall to watch the ceremony on the video screens initially installed for the outdoor event.

Security Adaptations

With the change in venue, security arrangements are being restructured. Alexi Worley, a spokesperson for the law enforcement agencies involved, stated that the U.S. Secret Service is working in coordination with Trump’s inaugural committee and congressional organizers to adapt security protocols to the updated plans. The safety of attendees remains a top priority, especially given the weather conditions.

Trump is also scheduled to hold a rally at the Capital One Arena on Sunday evening, providing another opportunity for supporters to gather before the swearing-in ceremony.

Historical Context of Inaugural Weather

Inaugurations held in winter have often been marked by extreme weather. President Barack Obama’s first swearing-in ceremony in 2009 occurred under cold conditions, with temperatures peaking at around 29°F. However, some past inaugurations have been even more challenging.

In 1841, William Henry Harrison delivered the longest inaugural address in U.S. history in freezing rain without wearing a hat or coat. The exposure is believed to have contributed to his death from pneumonia just a month later, making his presidency the shortest on record. Similarly, during President Ulysses S. Grant’s second inauguration in 1873, several attendees collapsed due to frigid temperatures and gusting winds. The morning temperature of 4°F that day remains the coldest March day in Washington’s history.

A Unique Start to Trump’s Presidency

Trump’s decision to move the ceremony indoors underscores the unpredictable nature of January inaugurations. While some supporters expressed disappointment at not being able to attend in person, many others are expected to tune in virtually or gather at designated venues like the Capital One Arena to witness the historic event.

Despite the logistical changes, the inauguration promises to be a memorable start to Trump’s term, with the Capitol Rotunda providing an intimate and historic backdrop for the ceremony.