WTOP News Latest School Closings and Delays

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When winter weather or emergencies strike the DMV (D.C., Maryland, and Virginia), WTOP News is the region’s go-to source for the most comprehensive and timely school closings and delays. Known for its “Traffic and Weather on the 8s,” WTOP provides a centralized system to help parents and commuters navigate the morning rush.

Current School Closings and Delays Status

How to Access the WTOP Closings List

WTOP updates its closing database in real-time as districts, private schools, and government offices report their status.

WTOP Web Dashboard: The Closings and Delays page features a searchable, alphabetized list covering D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland.
The WTOP News App: You can set customized push notifications for “Closings & Delays” so you are alerted the moment a change is announced for your specific county.
Radio 103.5 FM: Listen live for verbal updates. During major snow events, WTOP frequently broadcasts full lists of major district changes every ten minutes.

Understanding DMV School Policies

Different jurisdictions in the D.C. area have varying thresholds for closing. Here is a quick guide to common terms used in the WTOP ticker:

Status	Details
2-Hour Delay	School starts two hours late. Bus routes also run two hours behind. Morning half-day programs are usually canceled.
Code Orange (VA)	Used by some Virginia districts to indicate a remote learning day rather than a full closure.
Early Dismissal	Schools close midday to get students home before weather conditions deteriorate. After-school activities are canceled.
Closed / School Canceled	All buildings are closed. No classes, sports, or evening activities.

Why Decisions Vary by County

You may notice that Montgomery County might close while D.C. Public Schools stay open. This is often because larger counties like Fairfax or Montgomery have vast rural areas with winding, hilly roads that are harder to plow than the urban streets of the District. Superintendents typically make the final call by 5:00 AM to allow bus drivers and parents enough time to adjust.

Tips for Parents

Refresh Often: Online lists can update every few seconds during a major storm.
Check “Activities” Separately: Sometimes schools are open, but evening sports or “Community Use” activities are canceled.
Look for Your Specific School: The WTOP list includes hundreds of private schools and daycare centers that may not follow the local public school district’s lead.

Get the latest school closings, cancellations, and delays. View school closures for District of Columbia from WTOP News. WTOP delivers the latest news, traffic and weather information to the Washington, D.C. region. See today’s top stories.