Key Points:
- Maryland school closures are confirmed for Monday, Jan. 26, as officials prepare for heavy snow, ice, and extreme cold.
- Forecasts predict six inches or more of snow in some areas, creating dangerous travel and transportation conditions.
- More closures, delays, or remote learning options may be announced as weather conditions develop.
Several Maryland school closures have been announced for Monday, Jan. 26, as the state prepares for a significant winter weather event expected to impact large parts of the region. Education leaders are taking early action to protect students, teachers, and staff as forecasts point to heavy snow, ice, and very cold temperatures over the coming days.
Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate beginning late Saturday night and continue through Sunday, with impacts lingering into Monday. School officials are urging families and educators to stay alert for further updates as conditions evolve and more decisions are made.
Severe Winter Weather Expected Across The State
Forecasts indicate that much of Maryland will experience heavy snowfall combined with icy conditions and dangerously low temperatures, contributing to expanding Maryland school closures across the state. Meteorologists have identified Saturday, Sunday, and Monday as critical weather days due to the potential severity of the storm. A Winter Storm Watch has been issued for several counties, including Carroll, Howard, Baltimore, Harford, Anne Arundel, Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne’s, Caroline, and Talbot counties, along with Baltimore City.
Weather models suggest that some areas of the state could receive six inches or more of snow over the weekend. Ice accumulation and strong winds may further complicate travel conditions. These factors raise concerns about road safety, school transportation, and access to school buildings, particularly during early morning hours.
Cold air moving into the region is also expected to drive temperatures well below seasonal averages. Prolonged exposure to such conditions can pose risks for students waiting at bus stops and for staff commuting to campuses. School systems are monitoring these developments closely as they evaluate whether additional closures or schedule changes will be necessary.
Schools And Universities Take Early Action
As of Thursday afternoon, at least two local universities have confirmed that their campuses will be closed on Monday, Jan. 26, joining the growing list of Maryland school closures. The early announcements aim to give students and faculty time to adjust travel plans and prepare for possible disruptions. K through 12 school systems across the state are also reviewing forecasts and coordinating with local emergency officials.
Education administrators base Maryland school closures on factors such as snowfall totals, ice risks, temperature levels, and the ability of road crews to clear routes safely. In many cases, rural areas and districts with longer bus routes face higher risks during winter storms, which can influence early closure decisions.
Schools that do remain open may still consider delayed starts or shifts to remote instruction if conditions worsen. Teachers are being encouraged to prepare flexible lesson plans, while students are advised to stay connected through official school communication channels.
Parents and guardians are reminded to check school websites, email alerts, and messaging systems regularly. Decisions may change quickly as new weather data becomes available. Colleges and universities are also expected to update students through campus portals and learning management systems.
State and local officials continue to emphasize safety as the top priority. Reducing travel during heavy snow and ice helps limit accidents and allows emergency services to respond more effectively when needed.
As the winter storm approaches, more Maryland school closures or schedule adjustments are expected. Students, teachers, and families are encouraged to plan ahead, stay informed, and follow guidance from school officials and weather authorities over the weekend.