Baltimore, Maryland – Several school districts across Maryland announced closures and delays for Monday, Feb. 23, after a winter storm moved through the region, bringing accumulating snow and hazardous travel conditions. Officials said snowfall is expected to continue into Monday morning, affecting the start of the school week.
The storm prompted multiple districts to cancel in-person instruction, with some transitioning to virtual learning as crews work to clear roads and ensure student safety.
Storm Brings Accumulating Snow Across Maryland
Sunday was designated an Alert Day as a winter weather system delivered a mix of snow and rain across parts of the state. Meteorologists forecasted widespread snowfall totals between 3 to 5 inches in many areas, particularly around the Baltimore region.
Snow began falling Sunday and is expected to taper off gradually Monday morning. However, overnight accumulation and freezing temperatures may create icy roadways, reduced visibility, and unsafe driving conditions during the morning commute.
Officials emphasized that the combination of snowfall and potential icy patches poses significant risks for school buses and student transportation.
School Closures and Virtual Learning Plans
Several major districts announced changes to Monday’s schedule:
- Baltimore City Public Schools – Closed for in-person learning; virtual instruction will take place
- Baltimore County Public Schools – Closed; students will participate in virtual learning
- Anne Arundel County Public Schools – Closed for in-person classes; virtual learning implemented
These decisions were made out of caution as snow continues to impact road conditions across neighborhoods and major highways.
District leaders stated that shifting to online instruction allows academic schedules to continue without adding makeup days later in the year, while prioritizing student and staff safety.
Why Schools Close During Snow Events
Even moderate snowfall totals like 3 to 5 inches can significantly disrupt operations in densely populated areas. School districts must evaluate:
- Road conditions in residential neighborhoods
- Bus route accessibility
- Sidewalk and campus safety
- Parking lot and driveway clearance
- Potential for refreezing overnight
In Maryland, freezing overnight temperatures can cause slush to turn into black ice, creating hazardous early-morning travel conditions even after snowfall ends.
School administrators often make closure decisions the night before or early in the morning based on updated forecasts, road treatment progress, and communication with local emergency management agencies.
Impact on Families and Commuters
School closures can also affect parents’ work schedules and childcare plans. Virtual learning options provide some flexibility, allowing students to stay engaged academically without commuting in dangerous conditions.
Commuters across Maryland are also advised to use caution Monday morning. Even if major roads are treated, neighborhood streets may remain slippery. Drivers should allow extra travel time, maintain safe distances, and reduce speed in snow-covered areas.
Pedestrians should also be cautious of icy sidewalks and snow accumulation near intersections and crosswalks.
Ongoing Weather Monitoring
Weather officials continue to monitor the system as snowfall persists into Monday morning. While accumulation is expected to gradually decrease, lingering flurries and icy patches may remain throughout the day in some areas.
Residents are encouraged to check with their local school districts for the latest updates, as additional delays or schedule adjustments may be announced if conditions change overnight.
Safety Reminders During Snow Events
Winter storms can create rapidly changing conditions. Authorities recommend:
- Avoiding unnecessary travel during heavy snowfall
- Clearing snow from vehicles completely before driving
- Watching for snowplows and emergency vehicles
- Monitoring local weather alerts
Parents should also ensure students participating in virtual learning have access to devices, stable internet connections, and updated login information.
Conclusion
The snowstorm moving through Maryland has led several major districts, including Baltimore City, Baltimore County, and Anne Arundel County, to close physical campuses and transition to virtual learning for Monday, Feb. 23. With 3 to 5 inches of snow expected across parts of the region, officials are prioritizing safety as road crews continue clearing operations.
Residents are advised to stay informed, use caution while traveling, and prepare for potentially icy conditions through Monday morning.
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