Greater Cincinnati Schools Close and Delay Classes Following Overnight Snowfall

School districts across the Greater Cincinnati region announced closures, delays, and transitions to non-traditional instruction (NTI) days Monday morning after significant overnight snowfall created hazardous travel conditions.

According to WLWT, accumulating snow developed late Sunday night as temperatures dropped well below freezing, leading to slick and snow-covered roadways across the area. The sudden shift in weather prompted many districts to adjust their schedules to ensure the safety of students, faculty, and staff.

Among the districts affected, Boone County Schools announced a full closure for Monday. Meanwhile, Kenton County Schools and Campbell County Schools transitioned to NTI days, allowing students to continue their coursework remotely rather than reporting to school buildings in person.

The snowfall marked a sharp contrast to conditions just 24 hours earlier. On Sunday, the region experienced sunshine and above-freezing temperatures, preventing any early accumulation. However, as evening fell, temperatures dipped into the low 20s. Snow showers that began overnight quickly adhered to untreated surfaces, including secondary roads, sidewalks, and parking lots, creating widespread icy patches by early Monday morning.

Meteorologists indicated that while snowfall totals varied by location, the combination of freezing temperatures and gusty winds significantly worsened travel conditions. Wind chills Monday morning were expected to make temperatures feel like the single digits. Even during the afternoon hours, wind chill values were projected to remain in the teens to low 20s, despite actual air temperatures climbing to near the freezing mark.

Road crews worked overnight and into the early morning hours to treat primary routes. However, officials cautioned that untreated and less-traveled roadways could remain slick throughout much of the day. School administrators cited these concerns when making decisions about closures and remote instruction.

The return of wintry weather comes after an extended stretch of milder conditions that gave the region an early taste of spring. Forecasters noted that the current pattern represents a more typical late-February climate for southwest Ohio and northern Kentucky.

Looking ahead, temperatures are expected to gradually moderate over the coming days. Highs are forecast to climb back into the 40s by midweek. However, the warming trend may bring additional precipitation. Weather models indicate the possibility of rain and snow showers returning to the area on Thursday, potentially creating further travel disruptions depending on temperature fluctuations.

Residents are encouraged to monitor updated forecasts and school announcements as conditions evolve. Drivers should use caution, allow extra travel time, and remain alert for icy spots, particularly on bridges and overpasses where freezing can occur more rapidly.

As winter weather reasserts itself across the region, school officials and local authorities continue to prioritize safety while minimizing disruptions to academic schedules.