School closings are beginning to roll in as lake-effect snow and bitter cold impact Western New York.
Buffalo Public Schools announced schools will be closed on Tuesday, January 21, with no remote instruction. “All students and staff are to stay home and stay safe.”
The district previously said it used its allotted snow days, but because Governor Kathy Hochul declared a State of Emergency for counties impacted by the lake effect storm the district said it will submit a request to the New York State Education Department to recover any snow days used during the emergency order.
The district said High School Regents exams scheduled for Tuesday will be rescheduled because of the state of emergency order as well.
Other districts that have already announced closures for Tuesday, January 21, include:
- Lackawanna City School District
- Pioneer Central Schools
- Iroquois Central School
- Orchard Park Central School District
- Olean City School District
- Springville-Griffith Institute Central School District
- Eden Central Schools
- Frontier Central Schools
- Gowanda Central School District
Gowanda Regents exams on Tuesday have been moved to Wednesday, January 22, 2025.
Western New York is preparing for a significant winter storm that is expected to bring heavy lake effect snow, sub-zero temperatures, and hazardous conditions, leading to a wave of school closures across the region. As the forecast calls for snow accumulation and bitterly cold wind chills, local authorities and school districts are urging families to stay informed and take precautions.
Lake Effect Snow to Blanket the Region
The National Weather Service has issued a lake effect snow warning for much of Western New York, with the heaviest snow expected to hit areas closest to Lake Erie and Lake Ontario. The storm system is predicted to dump several inches of snow in a short period, with some areas potentially receiving 6 to 12 inches by the end of the day.
Lake effect snow occurs when cold, dry air moves over the relatively warmer waters of the Great Lakes, picking up moisture that is then dumped as snow when it reaches land. This weather phenomenon can lead to intense, localized snowfalls that cause dangerous travel conditions.
Freezing Temperatures and Wind Chill Warnings
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In addition to the snow, a blast of frigid air will bring temperatures plummeting well below freezing. With wind chills expected to reach dangerously low levels, residents and commuters are being advised to limit time outdoors and bundle up when necessary. The combination of snow and extreme cold creates treacherous conditions, especially for drivers and pedestrians.
Wind chill warnings are in effect, with gusts of wind adding to the already frigid air, making it feel as though temperatures could be as low as -20°F in some areas. School children and staff are advised to be cautious, as prolonged exposure to the cold can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.
School Closures and Delays
As the storm begins to affect the region, school districts across Western New York are already announcing closures or delayed openings. Many districts are opting for remote learning for the day to ensure that students can safely continue their education from home without risking dangerous travel conditions.
Parents and guardians are advised to check with their local school district’s website or social media pages for real-time updates regarding school schedules. Some districts are also sending out automated messages to keep families informed of cancellations or delays.
Travel Disruptions Expected
In addition to school closures, local authorities are warning of treacherous driving conditions throughout Western New York. Roads may quickly become snow-covered and slippery, with visibility reduced due to blowing snow. The New York State Department of Transportation has deployed plows and salt trucks in affected areas, but travelers are urged to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary.
Drivers should prepare for slow-moving traffic, especially along major highways and rural routes. The forecasted snow bands will make driving conditions change rapidly, so it’s important to check road conditions before heading out and to carry an emergency kit in the vehicle.
Preparing for the Storm
Local officials are encouraging residents to take several precautions in preparation for the winter storm:
- Dress in Layers: Ensure that all family members wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including hats, gloves, scarves, and insulated boots.
- Stock Up on Supplies: Make sure homes are stocked with essential items, including bottled water, non-perishable food, medications, and batteries for flashlights in case of power outages.
- Check Heating Systems: Ensure that heating systems are working properly and that there are no blocked vents or chimneys.
- Monitor Weather Alerts: Stay informed by watching local news, listening to weather apps, or tuning into NOAA weather radio for ongoing updates on conditions in your area.
While this winter storm may disrupt daily routines in Western New York, the region is no stranger to severe winter weather. As the storm progresses, residents are reminded to stay safe and take necessary precautions to avoid accidents and injuries.
As of now, forecasts suggest that the worst of the storm will move out of the region by mid-week, with calmer, but still chilly, conditions expected thereafter. However, local school districts and authorities will continue to monitor the situation closely, making further announcements if conditions worsen or if additional closures are needed.
In the meantime, residents of Western New York should brace for a challenging 24-48 hours, with snow and cold temperatures serving as a reminder of the power of nature during the winter months.
