Hyper-local snow-day odds tuned to the 4–5 AM school-closure call.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about Snow Day Alerts, how the odds are calculated, and how to use the site to plan your morning. For deeper detail, see How It Works.
Is this official information from my school district?
No. Snow Day Alerts is not run by any school district and does not publish official closures. Always trust your district’s calls, texts, email alerts, and website announcements first.
What does the percentage actually mean?
It’s a planning signal — an estimate of how closely upcoming conditions match patterns that often lead to closures. It is not a guarantee. District decisions can change based on local roads, staffing, or policy.
How accurate are the percentages?
The odds are most useful when treated as a guide. Forecasts can shift overnight and districts weigh factors differently. Checking the evening before and again near 4–5 AM usually gives the most reliable picture.
Why does timing matter more than daily totals?
Snow that falls during the afternoon can often be cleared before morning. Snow or ice that falls overnight or during the morning commute can create hazardous roads and sidewalks right when buses and families travel.
What time of day are the odds most useful?
Most closures are decided around 4–5 AM local time. If a storm is active, check the night before and once more early morning.
Why do some big storms still show “No” or “Low” signal?
In snow-ready regions, plows and treatment routes can keep schools open even with heavier snowfall — especially if the snow ends well before morning. The model is intentionally conservative so it doesn’t shout “snow day” every time it snows.
Why can a small amount of snow show a higher signal?
Smaller snowfall can still cause closures if it lines up with freezing temperatures, creates slick roads, or falls during the commute window. Ice and refreeze are often bigger closure triggers than snow totals alone.
Does Snow Day Alerts account for ice and freezing rain?
Yes. The model considers precipitation and temperatures that increase the risk of icy roads, freezing drizzle, or overnight refreeze. Even a thin glaze can be enough to trigger delays or closures in many areas.
Does wind affect the odds?
Yes. Strong winds can reduce visibility and create drifting or blowing snow. This can worsen travel conditions even if snowfall totals aren’t extreme.
Why do odds vary by region?
Snow readiness is different everywhere. Regions with frequent snow often stay open at higher totals. Areas that see snow less often may close with smaller amounts. The model adjusts expectations rather than using one nationwide rule.
Why do you show results by ZIP code instead of school district?
ZIP codes are fast and easy for users, and weather can change significantly over short distances. District boundaries can be complex, so ZIP-level forecasting provides a simple, broadly useful estimate.
How often are forecasts updated?
Forecast data is refreshed regularly. During active storms, conditions can change quickly — so it’s normal to see odds shift. If you’re watching a storm, check again later or refresh near the early-morning window.
Why do results show only school days?
The forecast list focuses on closure decisions, which typically apply to weekdays. Skipping weekends keeps the results relevant and avoids clutter.
Do you track which districts actually closed?
Not currently. Snow Day Alerts focuses on forecast-based odds. For real closures, use your district’s official channels, local news, or closure alert systems.
Can teachers or districts use this site?
Yes — as one additional planning signal. It should not replace official decision-making, local road reports, or district safety checks. Think of it as a quick “storm readiness” indicator.
Is Snow Day Alerts free?
Yes. The site is free to use. Advertising helps cover servers and development so families can keep using the tool without subscriptions.
Do I need an account? Do you collect personal info?
No account is required for forecasts. Favorites are stored locally in your browser. If you send a message through the Contact page, the information is used only to respond or improve the site. See the Privacy Policy for details.
How can I share my forecast?
After checking a ZIP, use the Share buttons to share a link or copy it to text friends and family. Sharing helps others quickly check their own area.
Why does my friend’s ZIP look different than mine nearby?
Weather can vary a lot even within the same city. Lake effects, elevation, and storm bands can create big differences over a few miles. That’s why checking the most relevant ZIP for your commute or district is helpful.
How can I suggest improvements or report an issue?
Use our Contact page. Helpful details include your ZIP code, the time you checked, your device/browser, and what you expected to happen.