Snow slammed Central New York early Tuesday, prompting both the Syracuse and Ithaca City School Districts to cancel classes for the day. The closures come as the region contends with a widespread winter weather advisory and accumulating snow that made roads unsafe for commutes.
Central New York Sees Early-Season Snow Disruptions
In Syracuse and Ithaca, school officials confirmed Tuesday morning that all classes were canceled due to snowy conditions. The closures affect all grade levels. In Syracuse, the district follows a winter-weather plan that typically broadcasts closings before 6 a.m.; when a snow day is called, all after-school and evening activities are also canceled. Similarly, Ithaca’s district emergency-closing procedures went into effect, cancelling school for the day.
Why The Closures Were Necessary
Central New York was placed under a Winter Weather Advisory as light to moderate snow began to accumulate overnight. Street crews reported slick roads and limited visibility, making travel dangerous — especially during the morning rush. Given the potential for hazardous conditions, district officials determined the safest course was to shut down schools for the day.
What Families Should Know
- Parents and guardians in affected areas were urged to rely on official district notifications — via text alerts, websites, or official social-media channels — rather than assume school status.
- In the case of the Syracuse City School District (SCSD), the district emphasized reviewing its “Winter Weather Plan,” which outlines protocols for full closures, delays, or two-hour postponements.
- For the Ithaca City School District (ICSD), the closure announcement follows the district’s emergency-closing procedures, which are activated when weather or road conditions make travel unsafe.
Broader Impacts Across the Region
Schools across other parts of upstate New York — particularly in vulnerable suburban and rural areas — also issued delays or closures today, as the winter storm spreads. Many local governments and transportation services canceled or reduced operations.
Preparing for More Winter Weather Ahead
Officials are reminding families to stay alert to future updates. As Lake-effect and regional snow events become more common in the coming months, being signed up for district notifications and monitoring local weather alerts will help parents stay prepared.
Have you been affected by today’s closures? Share your experiences and stay tuned for updates.