Montgomery County Public Schools has announced a Code Red closure for Friday, January 30, as cleanup efforts from the recent winter storm continue across the county. The school system also announced a delay is likely for Monday, February 2nd.
MCPS confirmed the decision at 1:52 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, citing ongoing safety concerns related to road conditions, sidewalks, school parking lots, and bus loops. All MCPS schools and offices will be closed on Friday, and all school based activities, athletics, field trips, and community use of school facilities are canceled. Emergency personnel and facility operations staff will report as directed.
While Montgomery County officially ended its snow emergency declaration Thursday morning, conditions remain challenging in many areas. MCPS reported that only 30 percent of school parking lots and bus loops have been fully cleared, with the remaining 70 percent still in progress. Much of this work is being handled by contractors who are also supporting county, state, and private road clearing efforts.
MCPS emphasized that safe school operations require more than passable roads for personal vehicles. School buses need additional clearance and turning space, and schools cannot open unless staff members are able to safely travel to work. With more than 211 campuses and over 5,200 miles of county roads, officials said full operations are not yet feasible.
Weekend activities including Saturday School, athletics, and all community use of school facilities are canceled for both Saturday and Sunday. Crews will continue working throughout the weekend, and families are asked to avoid visiting school campuses to allow clearing operations to continue uninterrupted.
For planning purposes, MCPS currently anticipates a two hour delay for Monday, February 2. Officials cautioned that this could change depending on continued progress by county and state crews, as well as the availability of safe walking routes for students. An update on Monday’s operational status will be shared on Sunday, February 1 after 4 p.m.
In line with county guidance, enforcement of sidewalk snow clearing requirements has been paused until Monday, February 2. MCPS noted that clear and ice free sidewalks are essential for students who walk to school and encouraged residents to help prepare routes ahead of a potential reopening.
MCPS will operate emergency meal distribution sites on Friday, January 30, with 16 schools open for meal pickup between noon and 2 p.m. Families may receive up to three days worth of meals. Meals are available for individuals 18 and under, as well as adults with disabilities who are enrolled in school programs. Some childcare programs may also be open, and families are advised to check directly with their providers. Additional information can be found on the MCPS website.
