Massachusetts Schools Brace for Closures Amid Blizzard Warning

BOSTON (Azat TV) – Schools across Massachusetts are anticipating widespread closures and delays for Monday, February 23, 2026, as a powerful nor’easter is expected to bring blizzard conditions, heavy snowfall, and dangerous winds to the region. The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning for parts of Massachusetts and southern New England, the first such warning in four years, signaling extremely difficult to nearly impossible travel conditions throughout the day.

Residents are urged to stay informed about local school schedules, with many districts, including Worcester, Plymouth, Hanover, and Westboro Public Schools, already announcing closures. The storm, which is undergoing ‘bombogenesis’ as it approaches, is projected to deliver up to two feet of snow in some areas, coupled with significant wind gusts and the potential for coastal flooding and power outages.

Blizzard Conditions Expected Across Massachusetts

The impending nor’easter, forming off the North Carolina coastline, is set to intensify rapidly, bringing a potent combination of heavy snow and strong winds. A Blizzard Warning is in effect for the entire North and South Shores, Boston, Norfolk County, Plymouth County, Bristol County, Cape Cod, and Martha’s Vineyard. Areas to the west are under a Winter Storm Warning. According to CBS News Boston, a blizzard is defined by considerable falling or blowing snow reducing visibility to less than one-quarter mile for three or more hours, combined with sustained winds or frequent gusts of 35 miles per hour or greater.

Snowfall is expected to begin in Massachusetts from south to north between 8 p.m. and midnight on Sunday, February 22. The storm’s peak, with snowfall rates of one to three inches per hour, is anticipated between 2 a.m. and midday on Monday. Total accumulations could reach 16 to 24 inches in a ‘jackpot zone’ spanning from Cape Ann through Boston, Worcester, and across Bristol and Plymouth counties. Northern Essex, Middlesex, and Worcester counties, along with Cape Cod and Martha’s Vineyard, could see 10 to 16 inches, while Nantucket and Western Massachusetts expect 6 to 10 inches.

Wind is a significant concern, with northeast gusts potentially reaching 55 to 70 miles per hour or higher across southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod, and the Islands. Inland areas could experience gusts between 40 to 55 mph. These strong winds, combined with heavier, wetter snow along the coast, elevate the risk of tree and wire damage, leading to widespread power outages.

Specific School Closures and Delays Announced

In response to the severe weather forecast, numerous educational institutions have preemptively announced closures or delays for Monday, February 23. Among the public schools already confirmed closed are Worcester Public Schools, Plymouth Public Schools, Hanover Public Schools, and Westboro Public Schools. Private institutions like the British International School of Boston, Cheverus School of Sacred Hearts Parish, and Worcester Academy have also announced closures.

Colleges and universities are also affected, with Boston Architectural College, College of the Holy Cross, Mass Bay Community College, and Rivier University confirming their closure or transition to remote operations. Residents are advised to continuously check local news outlets, including NBC10 Boston and CBS News Boston, for the latest updates on school and university schedules, as the list of affected institutions is expected to grow throughout Sunday.

Travel Warnings and Safety Preparations

Authorities are strongly advising against non-essential travel during the storm’s peak, particularly from 3 a.m. through 3 p.m. on Monday. Whiteout conditions and extremely difficult to nearly impossible travel are expected throughout the day. Beyond the direct impacts of snow and wind, minor to moderate coastal flooding is a concern during high tides on Monday afternoon and Tuesday morning, with significant splashover, coastal inundation, and beach erosion anticipated.

Southern New England residents are encouraged to prepare for the worst before the storm’s arrival. This includes ensuring preparedness for potential power outages, having emergency supplies on hand, and making contingency plans. The combination of heavy, wet snow, powerful winds, and potential coastal impacts underscores the need for extreme caution and adherence to official safety warnings.

The proactive measures by Massachusetts school districts highlight the region’s commitment to prioritizing student and staff safety in the face of severe winter weather, reflecting lessons learned from past major snow events.