Snow fell across central Virginia on Friday, prompting Cumberland County Public Schools to ask parents to pick up students early as road conditions began to worsen and more winter weather was expected into the evening.
Early pickup and school changes
Cumberland County Public Schools told families that students would be dismissed ahead of the normal schedule because of concerns about snow-covered and slippery roads. Officials said they wanted buses off the roads before conditions grew more hazardous and asked parents and guardians who could do so to pick up children as soon as possible in the afternoon.
The division noted that some secondary and rural roads in the county had already seen snow cover in recent storms, and that past closures and delays showed how quickly conditions could change. Administrators said the early pickup plan was part of their effort to keep students and staff safe while still finishing part of the school day before the worst of the weather, according to 12onyourside.
Weather conditions and warnings
The National Weather Service placed parts of central and south-central Virginia under a Winter Weather Advisory, warning of a burst of snow with 1 to 2 inches of accumulation and slippery roads through the evening commute. The advisory covered portions of central, east central, south central, and southeast Virginia, with officials urging drivers to slow down and use caution while traveling.
State health officials also highlighted risks from a recent stretch of winter storms, urging residents across Virginia to stay warm and dry, watch for ice, and check on family, friends, and neighbors. The Virginia Department of Health reported increases in emergency visits related to cold exposure and falls during snowy and icy conditions, the Virginia Department of Health reported.
Guidance for families
School leaders reminded families to watch for calls, texts, and website updates about any further changes to schedules, including possible closures or delays if roads remain icy. Parents were advised to give themselves extra time when driving to schools, use main routes where possible, and be prepared for changing conditions as temperatures drop.
Officials said after-school activities would likely be canceled or adjusted, depending on how the storm evolves over central Virginia. They encouraged families to keep children indoors once they are home, dress them in layers if they go outside, and use care on steps, sidewalks, and driveways, where hidden ice can lead to slips and injuries, as per Rock Town Now.
