Winter Weather Advisory: Schools Delay Opening Amid Snow Forecast

PHILADELPHIA, PA — The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory, which is in effect from 4 p.m. on Tuesday, February 11, through 7 a.m. Wednesday, February 12, creating significant disruption in school schedules across the region.

With forecasts predicting snow accumulations between 2 and 4 inches, local school officials are responding by delaying school openings, with all School District of Philadelphia (SDP) schools operating on a two-hour delay on Wednesday, February 12. This delay is intended to ensure the safety of students and staff as inclement weather rolls in, causing potential hazardous road conditions.

“Due to the inclement weather, all school programs and activities, as well as the District’s administrative offices, will operate on a two-hour delay,” said Tony B. Watlington Sr., Ed.D., Superintendent of the SDP. “We encourage students, families, and staff to travel safely tomorrow morning.”

All late arrivals recorded tomorrow, due to weather-related concerns, will be excused, allowing families some flexibility amid worsening conditions. Parents are advised to prepare for delays with the District’s yellow bus services and on SEPTA’s different transportation routes, including subways, trolleys, and buses.

Nearby districts are also taking precautions. The Bensalem Township School District, for example, confirmed a two-hour delay, while the Bucks County Technical High School is similarly adjusting its schedule. Each district is actively monitoring weather developments and will communicate any necessary changes.

Meanwhile, Bucks County Community College campuses will close early at 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday, resuming activities at 1:40 p.m. Wednesday, providing further measures to ensure the safety of students.

In anticipation of the potential for worsening weather conditions, the Bristol Borough School District has indicated that any changes to the two-hour delay could lead to an asynchronous learning day if deemed necessary.

Central Bucks School District has advised parents via a text alert that it will also operate on a two-hour delay Wednesday. They emphasize that further notifications will be issued before 7:30 a.m.

Council Rock School District has already closed its facilities for the evening and canceled after-school activities for Tuesday, preparing for the impact of the storm.

Lower Merion School District has also canceled after-school activities and advised guardians to adhere to early pick-up times to ensure the safety of all involved.

The winter weather advisory has prompted multiple districts—including Hatboro-Horsham, Morrisville, Neshaminy, and North Penn—to implement two-hour delays as they prioritize student safety amid inclement weather.

Local officials encourage families to stay updated through district websites and alerts for the latest information regarding any potential changes to school schedules.