Src: Getty images
The inauguration ceremony has officially moved indoors by President-elect Donald Trump due to dangerously cold temperatures anticipated on inauguration day, January 20, 2025. The event will now take place in the Capitol Rotunda, marking only the second time in the United States history that an inauguration has been held inside the Capitol, the last being Ronal Reagan's second inauguration in 1985 under similar weather conditions.
According to the National Weather Service, temperatures will be extremely low, with highs around -5°C (23°F) and wind chills possible dropping to single digits. This forecast signals a significant drop from typical January temperatures, prompting concerns over the safety of public for attendees and participants alike.
The decision from Trump mirrors a priority on safety, as he expressed a desire to avoid any injuries among supporters and law enforcement due to harsh weather.
With permits for about 30,000 ticketed guests and an additional 250,000 in non-ticketed areas on the National Mall, the inauguration was initially anticipated to hold sizable crowds. The indoor location, however, severely limits capacity. To solve this problem, up to 20,000 people will be able to watch the ceremony live at Capital One Arena, which is around a mile from the Capitol.
This shift indoors in notable not only for its rarity but also for its historical context. The inauguration of Reagan in 1985 was similary affected by harsh cold, with temperatures going down to just 7°F and wind chills making it feel even colder. The decision to move events indoors underscores the challenges posted by severe weather conditions during significant national events.
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