Winter Storm Causes School Closures and Travel Warnings Across U.S.

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — A winter storm warning has led multiple school districts across West Virginia to announce closures and delays for students on Tuesday, February 11, 2025. The West Virginia Department of Education indicated that a significant snowfall would impact travel conditions, prompting these decisions.

As of 8:54 PM, the Department confirmed that various counties are implementing non-traditional learning days, while others reported complete closures. Residents are urged to stay informed on the evolving weather situation and the impacts on local schools.

In addition to West Virginia, other areas in the Northeast are also bracing for winter weather. An ice storm warning is currently in effect for parts of the Appalachian Mountains stretching from West Virginia to Pennsylvania. The storm is expected to begin with snow showers and transition to rain and ice, complicating travel plans for many.

“We’re asking everyone to use caution while traveling, as icy conditions are likely on roadways,” said a spokesperson for the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. “Temperatures will remain low, with wet roads potentially being icy, especially on bridges and ramps.”

Officials are actively pre-treating roads to mitigate icy conditions, but they caution that not all risks can be completely managed. Last winter in Pennsylvania, there were 151 reported crashes attributed to aggressive driving on slick roads, resulting in three fatalities.

In response to the incoming storm, the School District of Philadelphia has also announced that students will shift to virtual learning, while various counties in New Jersey are preparing for delays and closures of their own. Reports suggest that at least 22 states, from Oklahoma to Vermont, are under various weather alerts due to forecasted inclement conditions.

“Drivers should remain vigilant, as conditions can change rapidly,” the spokesperson continued. “We will assess the situation continuously and lift restrictions as soon as it is safe to do so.”

The storm’s impact is expected to peak Thursday morning but is projected to dissipate by midday. However, another storm system bringing ice and snow is forecasted for the Midwest and Northeast later in the weekend, prompting officials to stay prepared for further adjustments.

For real-time updates on school closures and travel advisories, residents can check local news sources and weather service websites. Sharing photos and videos of the snowfall on social media is encouraged to gauge how widespread the storm’s effects have been in individual communities.