In response to inclement weather, Montgomery County is observing a snow day today, with non-emergency government facilities closed. According to a county's recent announcement, local libraries, recreation centers, aquatic hubs, senior centers, and even County ABS stores will not open their doors. Also on the snow day agenda are scrapped activities previously arranged through Community Use of Public Facilities, effectively putting a freeze on Monday's community events.
Though schools often become ghost towns on such days, the Montgomery County Public Schools had already scheduled a staff planning day, their halls empty by design rather than by surprise. "Montgomery County Public Schools are closed on Monday, Jan. 26, for a previously scheduled staff planning day," as stated in the county's announcement. For good measure, and likely due to the forecast, MCPS won't reopen until Wednesday, guaranteeing a longer hiatus for educators and students alike, with child care programs also taking two days off.
Commuters who rely on public transportation should note that Ride On buses plan to operate on a limited "S" service today. While bus wheels might still go round and round, they'll do so less frequently, and residents are encouraged to visit the Ride On website for any storm-induced changes to that plan. And, if you're one to roll your trash and recycling bins to the curb on Mondays, hold that thought—collections are canceled and will now follow a slide schedule that caps off on Saturday, Jan. 31.
For those residents who are glued to their screens waiting for updates, or for others who prefer their updates more immediate, signing up for Alert Montgomery might be a click or text away from peace of mind. The same announcement prompts community members to use the Winter Storm Portal to stay informed. In the event that questions burn hotter than the chill outside, MC311 is your helpline, starting calls at 6 a.m. today, ready to guide you through any confusion or concerns.
