Winter Storm Prompts School Closures Across Major U.S. Cities

MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) – A series of winter weather warnings have led several schools across the United States to announce closures, delays, and early dismissals for Tuesday, February 18. The National Weather Service predicts frigid temperatures and snowfall expected to start around noon on Tuesday, continuing into Wednesday.

In Memphis, the National Weather Service Memphis forecasts approximately 1.5 inches of snow, while areas north, such as Jackson, are expecting over 2 inches. As a result, several local school districts have already begun dismissing students early.

The following districts have confirmed closures for Wednesday, February 19: Millington Municipal Schools; Arlington Community Schools; Bartlett City Schools; Collierville Schools; Germantown Municipal School District; Lakeland Schools; Memphis-Shelby County Schools; and University Schools. As of Tuesday afternoon, DeSoto County Schools had not announced any closures or early dismissals.

“We are prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students during this unpredictable winter weather,” said a spokesperson for Millington Municipal Schools. “We encourage all families to stay tuned for updates as the weather evolves.”

Meanwhile, in Park City, Utah, the Park City School District is keeping a close watch on a separate incoming winter storm expected Friday. Officials anticipate heavy snowfall during morning commutes. The district has stated that they will make closure announcements by 6 a.m. Friday, allowing families to adjust their plans accordingly.

“Our top priority is the safety of students and staff,” said Park City School District officials. “If conditions necessitate a full closure, we are prepared to take that step.”

In Wake County, North Carolina, schools have announced closures for Wednesday in anticipation of snow accumulation. Wake County Schools’ director of marketing and communications, Tamani Powell, confirmed that no remote learning will take place this week. “We work as a district to ensure the safety of everyone,” Powell stated.

The upcoming winter storm is expected to bring 2-4 inches of snow and sleet to northern Wake County, with Raleigh forecasted to receive 1-2 inches. Consequently, other districts in the area, like Durham Public Schools and Orange County Public Schools, will be implementing remote learning.

As snowstorms have increasingly led to school closures this season, Wake County Schools are drawing on their banked time—a reserve of days set aside to prevent disruptions to the academic calendar. However, this bank is nearly depleted due to earlier winter weather events.

“We are evaluating our options for makeup days and assessing the balance between safety and instructional time,” said Andy Jenks, spokesperson for Chapel Hill-Carrboro City Schools.

With winter storms affecting multiple regions, including various parts of Oregon where over 200 school districts canceled classes on Thursday, the overall impact of this winter season on education continues to unfold.

As this story develops, updates will be provided regarding school closures and local weather conditions.