Friday, Jan. 30th: Predicted School Closures and Delays
As communities continue to recover from a severe winter storm, many schools in Montgomery County, Maryland, face challenges with delays and closures. The conditions remain precarious as of Friday, January 30, with ongoing clean-up efforts. Snow accumulation has left a significant pile of snow on sidewalks, particularly in the Gaithersburg area.
Impacts of Recent Snowstorm
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) building service employees are actively engaged in clearing snow from school properties. However, many schools are still in the process of managing icy conditions. Enforcement of snow-clearing requirements is currently paused until February 2, allowing citizens a bit more leeway while crews tackle the aftermath of the storm.
Snow Emergency Details
- Snow Emergency Status: Officially ended at 7 AM on January 29.
- Duration of Emergency: The declaration was active from the evening of January 24.
- Current Conditions: Sidewalks and roads remain icy and hazardous.
- Cleanup Timeline: Extended to February 2 for improved road safety.
Challenges Faced
Many areas still struggle with slick sidewalks and obstructed bus lanes. The accumulated snow has made sidewalks unwalkable, impacting both students and residents. As temperatures are predicted to stay freezing, the need for thorough snow removal is critical.
Looking Ahead
With an extended cleanup period, there is hope for more effective measures to restore normal operations at schools. This additional time could facilitate better preparation for a more orderly return to school activities, benefiting both students and staff alike.
Stay tuned for updates on school closures and delays as the situation evolves on Friday, January 30.
