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School closure on Monday:Winter Storm Blair has swept across the Plains, Midwest, and mid-Atlantic regions of the United States, bringing with it snow, ice, and freezing temperatures that have significantly disrupted daily life. The storm is expected to affect up to 250 million people across 40 states, creating treacherous conditions and prompting widespread closures of schools and government offices. The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned people to avoid travel, citing the dangers posed by heavy snowfall, icy roads, and freezing rain.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Weather Prediction Center previously predicted that Winter Storm Blair could bring the heaviest snowfall in over a decade to some areas. Blizzard warnings and winter weather advisories are currently affecting around 63 million people, with more than four million under direct blizzard warnings in regions like eastern Kansas and western Missouri, according to CNN.
Governors in Missouri, Maryland, Kentucky, and Virginia have declared states of emergency, enabling their states to access federal resources and streamline emergency responses. Widespread power outages, road closures, and hazardous conditions have been reported as snow accumulations continue to rise.
Schools closed in Kansas City, Missouri
In the Kansas City area, several school districts have announced closures or a transition to virtual learning. Blizzard conditions have blanketed the region with up to 25 centimeters (10 inches) of snow, creating hazardous travel conditions. Local station KSHB has published a comprehensive list of school closures and delays in the area. Governor Mike Parson has also warned of worsening conditions and advised residents to remain indoors.
PhilAdelphia schools shut down due to heavy snow
The School District of Philadelphia announced the closure of all its schools and administrative offices for Monday, January 6, following a Winter Storm Warning issued by the NWS. The region is bracing for 3 to 6 inches of snow, along with freezing temperatures. According to the district’s notice shared via BBC, all extracurricular activities and professional development sessions are also canceled. The district has implemented a contingency plan using an allotted snow day in the academic calendar.
Philadelphia Mayor Jim Kenney declared the city’s public schools and government offices closed, citing public safety concerns. Residents are advised to stay off the roads as up to 7 inches of snow and sub-zero temperatures are expected, the authorities advised.
Jefferson County Public Schools to remain closed Kentucky
In Kentucky, Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) canceled all classes, extracurricular activities, and athletics on Monday due to the hazardous conditions caused by Winter Storm Blair. JCPS serves nearly 100,000 students, and Monday was scheduled to be their first day back after the winter break. Governor Andy Beshear, who declared a state of emergency on Saturday, has urged residents to prepare for widespread power outages and freezing temperatures.
Indianapolis, Indiana schools transition to remote learning
As Winter Storm Blair makes its way across Indiana, schools in Indianapolis have opted for remote learning or full closures. The snowfall, which has accumulated 1 to 3 centimeters, has made road conditions slippery and dangerous. According to media reports, local officials are prioritizing the safety of students and staff, given the ongoing snowfall and freezing temperatures.
Richmond, Virginia braces for dangerous conditions
Schools across Richmond, Virginia, have preemptively closed or shifted to virtual instruction as the state braces for challenging travel conditions due to heavy snow and freezing rain. Governor Glenn Youngkin has encouraged Virginians to closely monitor weather alerts and avoid unnecessary travel. According to media reports, the region is expected to see significant disruptions throughout the week as Winter Storm Blair moves eastward.
School closures in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C., is also facing severe impacts from Winter Storm Blair. Mayor Muriel Bowser declared a snow emergency on Sunday and announced that all city schools would be closed on Monday. The city is forecasted to receive between 5 and 9 inches of snow. In a press conference, Mayor Bowser emphasized the importance of staying off the roads and heeding weather warnings.
Broader impacts and preparations
In addition to the school closures highlighted above, multiple states—including Maryland, Virginia, and Indiana—have reported similar measures. According to the BBC, Sunday marked the storm’s most intense phase for many states, resulting in school closures, road shutdowns, and thousands of flight cancellations. As the storm moves eastward, more disruptions are expected in the coming days.
Authorities have urged residents to remain vigilant, follow weather updates, and prioritize safety as Winter Storm Blair continues its path across the US.
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