Region Hunkers Down For Snowstorm

January 22, 2026

by Staff Reports

Snowfall began on the Lower Cape Sunday morning, with state, local and private road crews working feverishly to keep up with the accumulation. A Winter Storm Warning remained in effect for the Cape and Islands, which expected to receive between seven and 15 inches of snow and sleet, with localized additional snowfall.

While a period of sleet is possible during the storm, most of the snowfall will be light and fluffy, forecasters say. The risk for widespread power outages is limited, but localized outages are possible and utility officials are warning customers to be prepared. Report power outages to Eversource by calling 800-592-2000 or texting "OUT" to 23129.

Late Friday Chatham announced that the community center would open as a personal care site on Monday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Residents will be able to warm up and recharge phones and other devices if needed. The site will not provide meals or overnight accommodations. If residents need to warm up or charge devices outside of those hours, the police department on George Ryder Road is open 24 hours daily. Chatham residents with storm-related questions or who need transportation to the personal care site can call the emergency operations center at 508-945-5191. For emergencies, call 911.

All Nauset Public Schools and offices will be closed on Monday. All scheduled activities, including athletics and after-school programs, are also canceled.

The Cape Cod Lighthouse Charter School has canceled classes Monday.

The Chatham town offices, Center for Active Living and transfer station will open at noon on Monday due to the forecast storm. The closure may extend to the full day if conditions warrant. Officials plan to make that decision Sunday evening. Announcements will be made on the town's website and social media.

The Brewster Ladies' Library will not have Sunday afternoon hours on Jan. 25.

The Brewster Recycling Center will only be able to accept trash and recyclables on Sunday, Jan. 25.

All Brewster town offices and facilities, including the recycling center, will be closed on Monday January 26th. The select board meeting scheduled for Monday will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 28.

Orleans Town Hall and other town buildings will be closed Monday.

The Monomoy Regional School District expects to announce on Sunday by 7 p.m. whether there will be school Monday.

The Barnstable County Emergency Planning Committee is urging people to prepare for the storm and the cold weather by limiting travel during heavy snowfall, preparing for power outages by charging phones and medical devices; having flashlights and extra batteries available; checking on heating systems and ensuring that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working; dressing for the extreme cold; bringing pets indoors; checking on neighbors and others who may need help during the storm; preparing vehicles with fuel, windshield washer fluid, food, water, blankets and a flashlight; and following guidance from local public safety officials.

Watch this space for updated information on road conditions, power outages and cancellations.

Send any weather-related cancellations to us at stormcenter@capecodchronicle.com, and if you can take them safely, send us your snow photos, too.