Trump’s Inauguration Moved Indoors Due to Extreme Cold

Web Desk — After Ronald Reagan, the inauguration ceremony of President-elect Donald J. Trump will be moved indoors due to severe weather. Trump himself announced Friday that his inauguration on Monday will take place inside the U.S. Capitol Rotunda to protect attendees from the extreme cold sweeping the nation.

“The windchill in Washington, D.C., could push temperatures into record-breaking lows,” Trump stated. “An Arctic blast is sweeping the country. I don’t want anyone—attendees, law enforcement, first responders, or even police K9s and horses—to face dangerous conditions outdoors for hours. If you do come, dress warmly!”

Citing safety concerns, Trump directed that the ceremony, including prayers and speeches, be held indoors, as was done for President Ronald Reagan’s second inauguration in 1985 under similar circumstances.

The Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies confirmed the move in a statement, saying, “We will honor the President-elect’s request to relocate the 60th Inaugural Ceremonies to the U.S. Capitol Rotunda.”

Reagan’s Inauguration Faced Similar Challenges
On January 20, 1985, Reagan’s second inauguration was also relocated indoors due to bitter cold. Temperatures in Washington, D.C., that day ranged from minus 3 degrees overnight to a high of only 17 degrees, USA TODAY reported. The extreme weather forced the cancellation of the traditional parade, with exposed flesh reportedly at risk of freezing within minutes.

Monday’s Forecast
The National Weather Service predicts a high of 20 degrees on Monday, with wind gusts up to 30 mph creating single-digit wind chills throughout the day and subzero conditions at night. Meteorologist Sara Tonks noted this could break records for the coldest inauguration on January 20.

Inaugural Weather Averages
Typically, January 20 in Washington sees an average high of 45 degrees and a low of 30 degrees, with temperatures around 37 degrees at noon during the oath-taking.

Safety First
As Reagan stated in 1985, “The health and safety of those attending must come before any celebrations.” Trump’s decision echoes this sentiment, prioritizing the well-being of all participants over tradition.

“It wasn’t human to have it,” said Peter LaFlamme, director of New Hampshire’s Spartan Drum and Bugle Corps, reflecting on Reagan’s decision to cancel the outdoor events. Trump’s move ensures history does not repeat itself in terms of endangering public safety.