An April snowstorm was expected to bring up to 12 inches of snow to the northern Berkshires and up to 6 inches to the northern Worcester Hills overnight Tuesday. While the storm hasn’t wreaked too much havoc yet, the National Weather Service is predicting snowfall in parts Western and Central Massachusetts through Friday, and some schools are already preparing for the worst.
The first winter storm warning in Massachusetts will go into effect Wednesday morning at 11 a.m. and last through 6 a.m. on Friday. The warning is just for the northern Berkshires at elevations above 1,500 feet, according to the weather service.
Heavy mixed precipitation expected, and snow totals are predicted to be between 5 and 10 inches. A tenth of an inch of ice may also accumulate amid snowfall rates of up to an inch per hour, according to the weather service. This could make travel “very difficult” during the evening commute.
Another winter storm warning will go into effect in Massachusetts at 2 p.m. on Wednesday and last through 2 a.m. Friday. This warning only applies to western Hampshire and Franklin Counties, according to the weather service. Snow totals of 6 to 12 inches are expected during this time, and could make travel during the morning and evening commutes treacherous.
Strong winds are also expected during the storm, and a few times this winter, such strong winds have caused school closings through power outages. Winds gusts up to 50 and 60 mph are expected in much of Massachusetts later today, according to the weather service.
High wind warnings have been issued for the eastern coast of Massachusetts from 8 p.m. Wednesday to 2 p.m. Thursday and for the northern Berkshires from 10 a.m. Wednesday to 10 a.m. Thursday. During this time, widespread power outages are expected.
The following school districts have announced delays or closings for Wednesday, April 3. This list is continuously updated. To refresh this list, click here.
*Note that schools and districts are listed alphabetically by name.*
- Mowhawk Trail Regional School District — Early dismissal Wednesday. High school and middle school at 11 a.m., elementary school at noon. Morning preschool will be held but afternoon preschool is cancelled.
- Rowe Elementary School — Early dismissal Wednesday at 12:30 p.m.
