NYC Schools Closed Today

Joe Klein NYC schools chancellor announced that all NYC schools are closed today. The last snow day for NYC schools was more than five years ago on January 4, 2004. The decision to close the schools was not only a result of the snowfall but a variety of reasons that creates a dangerous condition.

As the old adage begins, March is roaring in like lion. Hopefully it will limp out like a lamb. A shout out to Staten Island Chuck the groundhog that predicted an early spring, do I have to tell you how popular Chuck is today as all NYC schools receive a snow day today.

Some of the factors that prompted the closings of all NYC schools are the secondary and tertiary roads still affected by the snowfall, the high winds, and the forecast for more snow accumulation by mid-morning.

NYC provides transportation to approximately 100,000 students to the various public schools via school buses and public transportation. Today's storm certainly won't hit the record books for the worst storm NYC had, however, as a result of the dangerous factors including the westbound closure of the LIE, high winds and dangerous icy road conditions it is enough to announce full closure for all NYC public schools.

At the time of this writing, there is a lull in the storm with approximately 5.9 inches of snow accumulation in the LaGuardia area and 30 mph wind gusts. By 9:00 am, it is expected to storm again with increased winds and total accumulation expected to be approximately 10inches.

Accidents and winds are causing major travel delays and temporary bridge closings, a perfect storm to close all NYC schools for the first time in five-years.

NYC schools kids and teachers will be happy to receive today's snow day. Many cops and firefighters are already at work because as you know crime and emergencies do not take a holiday or a snow day.

Private and parochial schools announced closings much earlier. Some area colleges are closed as well. The College of Staten Island is closed, St John's University is closed, Wagner College is delayed until noon, however, will reassess by mid-morning when the second round of the storm is expected to hit.

Motorists are urged to clean off the top of their vehicles to prevent snow from flying off the roof of their cars creating additional hazards. In addition, to clearing off the top of the vehicles be mindful of clearing off your headlights and taillights.

Drive safe and happy sledding. May all NYC folks have a safe snow day as NYC schools are all closed today for the first time in five-years.