Freezing rain and icy conditions across Massachusetts and New Hampshire on Wednesday morning forced numerous school districts to alter their schedules. Delays and closures were announced as officials cited safety concerns for students and staff. The wintry mix early on Wednesday made roads treacherous, prompting school leaders to adjust operations ahead of the morning commute.
According to CBS Boston, several districts reported delayed starts or full closures due to slick road conditions and forecasts calling for continued freezing rain and ice accumulation.
Local meteorologists have warned that even a small amount of ice can make untreated surfaces hazardous, increasing the risk for slips, falls and vehicle accidents.
Schools affected in Massachusetts
In Massachusetts, a number of public school systems implemented two‑hour delays for Wednesday. Districts in Worcester, Middlesex and Essex counties, including schools such as Athol‑Royalston, Ashburnham‑Westminster Regional, and Billerica Public Schools, were among those reporting delayed openings to allow road crews extra time to treat major routes and bus corridors, according to Boston 25 News.
What about New Hampshire?
Meanwhile, in New Hampshire, dozens of schools also announced postponed starts or closures. Some institutions, such as the Arts Academy of New Hampshire in Salem and Mascoma Area Senior Center in Canaan, chose to close entirely for the day. Others, including Ashland Elementary School and Ashuelot Valley Academy, moved to a two‑hour delayed opening to help keep students safe, WMUR reported.
The decision to delay or cancel classes came as the National Weather Service issued advisories for winter weather, forecasting continued cold temperatures combined with freezing rain into the mid‑morning hours. Icy patches on roadways and sidewalks were expected to persist into the day, affecting morning commutes and bus routes, CBS News reported.
Officials have urged families to stay informed through their local school districts for the latest updates, as conditions can change rapidly with evolving weather patterns. Parents and caregivers were reminded that even with delays, caution is paramount when traveling in icy conditions.