Maryland and Virginia Schools Announce Widespread Two-Hour Delays as Refreezing Threat Looms Overnight
DMV REGION — School districts across Maryland and Virginia have announced widespread two-hour delays as of 8:40 p.m., citing the risk of overnight refreezing and dangerously cold temperatures expected across the region. The delays are intended to give road crews and families additional time to navigate potentially icy morning conditions.
Most Maryland and Virginia Districts Moving to Delayed Start
According to the latest regional update, nearly all school districts in Maryland and Virginia are on a two-hour delay, with only a few exceptions. Baltimore City Public Schools, Washington, D.C., and some Northern Virginia districts are not delayed at this time.
The delay map shows a broad concentration of two-hour delays across central and northern portions of both states, reflecting concerns about untreated roads and refreezing surfaces.
“The primary concern tonight is refreezing on roads and sidewalks as temperatures drop further,” the update stated.
Central Virginia Districts Most Impacted by Overnight Cold
The delays are especially widespread across Central Virginia, where school officials say forecasted overnight temperatures increase the likelihood of icy travel conditions during the morning commute.
Some districts in this region have indicated they will reassess conditions early Wednesday morning, meaning start times could still change depending on how temperatures and road conditions develop overnight.
“Some districts will reassess conditions in the morning, so decisions may change,” the update noted.
Refreezing Expected on Untreated Roads and Sidewalks
Weather conditions overnight are expected to cause any remaining water or melting snow to refreeze, particularly on untreated roads, bridges, parking lots, and sidewalks. Officials warn that surfaces may appear wet but could actually be icy, creating hazardous conditions for drivers and pedestrians.
Transportation and safety officials urge families to use caution during the morning commute and to allow extra travel time.
“If something looks wet, it could be slick and icy,” the advisory warned.
Washington, D.C. and Baltimore City Not Delayed at This Time
Despite the widespread delays across Maryland and Virginia, Washington, D.C. schools and Baltimore City schools are currently operating on regular schedules, along with some Northern Virginia districts.
Officials in those areas may be relying on road treatment coverage and localized assessments, though families are still encouraged to remain alert for any overnight changes.
Parents Urged to Monitor School Communications Closely
School administrators across the region are advising parents and guardians to closely monitor official district announcements overnight and early Wednesday morning, as weather-related decisions may still be adjusted.
Families are also encouraged to ensure students are dressed appropriately for extreme cold, especially those waiting outdoors for buses in areas experiencing single-digit wind chills.
WaldronNews.com will continue tracking confirmed school delay updates across Maryland and Virginia and will provide additional coverage if schedules change overnight.