US: Why schools in Minnesota, Wisconsin are closing, delaying classes

A powerful spring snowstorm swept through Minnesota and western Wisconsin on Tuesday night into Wednesday morning, forcing hundreds of schools to close or delay classes.

The storm, which began as rain before transitioning to snow as temperatures dropped, brought significant snowfall to the region. By 6 a.m. Wednesday, the National Weather Service had reported 7.4 inches of snow at Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport.

With the Twin Cities under a winter storm warning until 3 p.m. and a blizzard warning in effect farther south, travel conditions became hazardous, prompting school districts to take precautionary measures.

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Several schools, including Lake Benton School, Lakeview Public Schools, and Minneota Public School, closed early Tuesday afternoon. By Wednesday, major districts such as Anoka-Hennepin Public School District, Edina Public Schools, and the Hudson School District in Wisconsin announced full closures. Minneapolis Public Schools opted for an e-learning day for students in grades 6 through 12, while younger students were given the day off.

Many schools shifted to virtual learning for the day, including all public schools in St. Paul, Faribault, and Red Wing, as well as Maplewood’s Hill-Murray High School and Eau Claire’s Chippewa Valley Technical College. Meanwhile, Lakeville Public Schools and Lakeville’s All Saints Catholic School delayed their start by two hours.

The storm’s intensity and its impact on road conditions have made commuting unsafe for students and staff, leading to widespread school closures and schedule adjustments.

CBS