Snow and Extreme Cold Forces Schools Around Western New York To Close

Just in case you hadn't noticed yet, winter has hit Western New York in full force. Over the last few days, several winter weather advisories and warnings have been issued all over Northern, Central, and Western New York. Lots of snow and some dangerously cold temperatures are on the way to the Buffalo and Rochester areas of the state, and that is causing many people to think about what they need to do in and around the region this week.

Not only have travel advisories been issued all over the region, but the current winter storm warnings that are in effect are also causing school districts and businesses all over the 716 and the 585 to close their doors.

Things are so serious that government officials are ringing the alarm to make sure people are ready and prepared for some of the coldest weather of the year.

KEEP READING: Gov. Hochul Issues Warning About Hazardous Winter Storm

To help make sure our kids are safe and sound, school districts from Buffalo and beyond are all shutting thier doors on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, with the option of keeping them closed longer if necessary.

From public schools like the BPS, Amherst Central, Cheektowaga, Sweet Home, and more, to private schools like Nichols, a majority of the districts in the region have shut their doors due to the weather.

According to the report from the National Weather Service, as much as four feet of snow can fall in the region by the end of the day on Wednesday, January 21, 2026. This will make travel around the region very difficult, which means it's likely a good idea for the kids to be home from school.

READ MORE: 5 Ways To Make Sure You’re Ready To Handle Winter Weather In Upstate

With the advancements we've made in technology, is it really that big of a deal to have a snow day every now and again? What do you think?

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