Schools Across Ohio Close as Winter Storm Lingers

Several school districts across central Ohio announced closures or delays for Wednesday, Jan. 8, as the region continues to grapple with the aftermath of a major winter storm. The storm, which dumped over 10 inches of snow in some areas, has left roads treacherous and temperatures plummeting, prompting officials to prioritize safety.

Many districts had already canceled classes on Monday and Tuesday due to the severe weather. On Wednesday, closures were primarily concentrated in rural counties where Level 3 snow emergencies had been declared earlier in the week. While some counties downgraded to Level 2 by Tuesday afternoon, blowing snow and icy conditions continued to make travel hazardous.

“The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” said a spokesperson for one affected district. “With temperatures remaining below freezing and additional snow expected later in the week, we felt it was best to err on the side of caution.”

Temperatures are expected to stay in the single digits overnight, with wind chills dipping as low as -7 degrees Fahrenheit. Another round of snow is forecast for Friday night, potentially adding to the already significant accumulations.

Parents and students are encouraged to check with their local school districts for updates or visit the district’s website for the latest information on closures and delays.