Across several states, dense fog and frigid temperatures have prompted widespread school closures and delays on January 15, 2026. School districts are prioritizing the safety of students and staff amidst hazardous travel conditions.
In California's Central Valley, the Monson-Sultana School, faced unusually dense fog. Principal and Superintendent Roberto Vaca, emphasizing student safety, initially implemented a one-hour delay before escalating to a two-hour delay due to the persistent fog.
Middle Tennessee school districts, including Cumberland, Fentress, and Grundy counties, also announced two-hour delays, but freezing temperatures and illness were the primary concerns. Perry County Schools made the decision to close for both Thursday and Friday, prioritizing public health due to a widespread illness affecting the district.
In western Pennsylvania, including Pittsburgh, icy roads and the potential for snow led to numerous school delays. Over 50 schools in the area, such as Uniontown Area and Connellsville School Districts, initiated two-hour delays. The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory, cautioning about hazardous travel conditions.
In the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area, a fast-moving winter storm resulted in widespread school bus cancellations and school closures. The Halton District School Board and the Halton Catholic District School Board closed all schools, cancelling transportation in all zones. The closures included elementary and secondary schools, administrative centers, and school-based programs and activities. Similarly, the Toronto Catholic District School Board closed all schools, also cancelling bus transportation, child care centers, and before and after school programs. The York Catholic District School Board also closed all schools due to worsening weather conditions. While the York Region District School Board cancelled all transportation services, schools remained open. The Durham District School Board cancelled all buses but schools remained open.
The University of Guelph-Humber campus closed on January 15, 2026, due to inclement weather, with all scheduled classes cancelled. Online courses, however, continued as planned.
These closures and delays highlight the challenges that winter weather presents to communities across the country. School officials are closely monitoring conditions and making decisions based on the best available information to ensure the safety and well-being of students and staff.
