Winter Storm Fern to impact Reading beginning Sunday afternoon

Jan 24

(2-minute read)

Town officials are urging residents to prepare as Winter Storm Fern is expected to bring heavy snow to Reading and the surrounding area beginning Sunday, January 25. Forecasts indicate rapidly deteriorating conditions Sunday afternoon through early Monday, with impacts to travel, municipal operations, and services.

Snowfall & DPW operations

According to town officials, snow is expected to begin around 2:00 pm Sunday, with snowfall rates reaching 1 inch per hour through the early morning hours. Lighter snow is expected to continue throughout the day on Monday.

The Reading Department of Public Works plans to begin plowing operations Sunday afternoon and will continue working to keep roadways and walkways as safe as possible throughout the storm.

Trash & recycling delayed

Republic Services will not collect trash or recycling on Monday, January 26. All scheduled collections will be delayed by at least one day for the remainder of the week.

Closure & schedule updates

The Reading Public Library will be closed Sunday, January 25, and Monday, January 26
Reading Public Schools, Reading Town Hall, and the Pleasant Street Center will share any closure or schedule changes via email and their usual communication channels

Residents are encouraged to monitor official town updates as conditions evolve.

Overnight parking & snow parking ban reminder

The Reading Police Department reminds residents that overnight street parking is prohibited when snow is predicted.

The overnight parking ban is in effect from 1:00 am to 6:00 am, except in the Downtown Business District
Vehicles parked on the street during the ban are subject to ticketing and towing at the owner’s expense
All town-owned municipal lots and regulated streets in the Downtown Business District are enforced at all times, regardless of weather conditions
Residents with a residential parking sticker may park overnight at the designated lot at the Depot on Lincoln Street
A map showing restricted areas and the overnight parking exception can be seen below

Questions about parking enforcement can be directed to Parking@ReadingMA.gov.

Community safety reminder

Officials urge residents to check on elderly and vulnerable neighbors, limit unnecessary travel during peak storm hours, and allow DPW crews and emergency responders room to work safely.

Additional updates will be shared as conditions change. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and take precautions as Winter Storm Fern approaches.