Dozens of school districts across Massachusetts have announced delayed openings and closures for Wednesday, January 29, 2025, following overnight snow accumulation. Reports indicated various regions experienced slick road conditions and travel delays as snow covered the streets.
According to Boston 25 News, parts of Massachusetts were predicted to receive up to 3 inches of snow, with some areas possibly exceeding these forecasts. Specifically, towns like Heath saw up to 6 inches, contributing to hazardous driving conditions. The snow began overnight and had largely stopped by sunrise, leaving many commuters grappling with the aftermath.
“Just about everybody has at least a little risk” of snowfall, said Matthew Belk, meteorologist at the National Weather Service, highlighting the broad impact of the storm. Although it wasn’t classified as major, the weather significantly affected travel and daily routines.
Schools across Hampshire and Franklin County, including the Four Rivers Charter School and the Greenfield Schools, have reported delays. The primary reason cited by officials was the need to clear roads and allow for safe travel for students and staff. The list of closures and delays continues to update, indicating the dynamic nature of the situation.
Snow totals varied throughout the state, reflecting localized differences. For example, towns such as Orange and Charlemont reported 5 inches and 4.5 inches, respectively, creating challenges for all municipalities affected. Reports suggest Boston saw around 1.4 inches, which, though not extensive, still made for difficult travel conditions.
Meteorologists are also watching for another weather system, as temperatures are expected to rise during the day, reaching the low to mid-40s along the coast. This warmth will be short-lived, as forecasters warn of upcoming cold fronts and potential snow again by Friday. “We could see more snow,” warned Belk, noting projections for the next storm remain uncertain as the weather system continues to develop over the Great Lakes.
With winter storms leaving behind slick roads, local authorities have shared important safety reminders for drivers. They urged motorists to thoroughly clean off their vehicles and check tire pressure before hitting the roads. Increased following distances and reduced speeds are also recommended practices to navigate safely through the snowy conditions.
“If you start to skid, do not brake hard. Take your foot off the accelerator,” authorities advised, emphasizing careful driving techniques to prevent accidents. These recommendations are particularly pertinent as many throughout the state head to work or school, striving to navigate the challenging winter weather.
This situation remains fluid, as weather patterns can shift suddenly. Residents are encouraged to stay informed via constantly updated forecasts and alerts from local news sources enabling them to remain safe amid volatile conditions.
Overall, Massachusetts schools faced substantial disruptions due to the wintry weather. Continued monitoring of forecasts and potential travel advisories are recommended, particularly with another weather front on the horizon. For now, communities across Massachusetts are bracing for changing conditions but are quick to adapt, ensuring student safety remains top priority.