Updated School Closings and Dangerous Roads in New York State

As cold weather settles in and the snow begins to fly, some schools across New York State are closing due to severe winter conditions.

As you wake up this week, you’ll notice a dramatic shift in the weather. Bitter cold air has arrived, and ice is forming just about everywhere. Our kids often joke about it, but it’s true: you really should “walk like a penguin” to avoid slipping on icy sidewalks and parking lots.

VIEW THE CLOSING LIST HERE

Icy Roads Are the Bigger Concern

While walking safely is important, the driving conditions are the real headline. When temperatures drop this low, even well-salted and treated roads can become slick. Over the last few days, the freezing temperatures and steady snowfall have created dangerous travel conditions across Western New York and the rest of the state. As a result, several school districts have decided to close or delay classes.

How Schools Communicate Closings

Be sure to check with your local school district for updates over the next few months. Facebook pages, district websites, emails, and other social media channels are the quickest ways for families to stay informed. Most decisions are made either the night before or very early in the morning to give parents enough time to adjust their schedules if their children need to stay home during a snow event.

Read More: A Rain Gear Ban Is Coming To New York State

A Colder December Ahead

Forecasts show that we’re heading into a significantly colder December than we’ve experienced in recent years. Overnight lows are expected to hover near zero by the end of the week, and more snow and ice are likely.

Be prepared for rapidly changing conditions on the roads, and for parents with young children, stay flexible as school closings and delays may become more frequent as winter ramps up.