The wintry blend of precipitation across Massachusetts has prompted a significant number of schools to adjust their schedules, amid concerns for the safety of students and faculty during the challenging driving conditions. According to WCVB, over 150 schools across the state announced delays this morning, with some opting for a full closure due to the hazardous mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain.
Travelers faced a commute on roads covered in a mix of snow and rain, which transitioned into slushy conditions. Several individuals interviewed by 7News noted the weather’s impact varied. "It’s mostly slush now. Earlier on, it was snow, and now it’s slush," a commuter shared, adding, "Did pretty good because the rain is washing everything down the drain, but the only thing you got to worry about is when it freezes."
Schools in Andover, Billerica, Gloucester, Lawrence, Lowell, and Worcester are just a few that announced a two-hour delay, as districts sought to provide additional time for road conditions to improve before buses and parents embarked on the morning school runs. Those interested in the complete tally of impacted institutions can find a full list of the school closures and delays on the WCVB report.
While plow drivers worked diligently to mitigate the conditions, an individual described the situation as manageable to 7News, stating, "If you have a vehicle that works in it, it’s fine, otherwise, don’t go out," and contemporaneously noted, "They’re fine. It’s raining, so, nothing’s sticking." Despite the efforts to clear the roads, the natural segue from precipitation to a frozen terrain as temperatures drop remains a concern for the evening commute.
