On March 17, 2026, inclement weather resulted in widespread school cancellations and remote learning days across Western North Carolina. Asheville City Schools, along with several other districts, announced closures due to icy conditions and low temperatures.
Asheville City Schools confirmed a remote learning day, while Avery County Schools also opted for remote learning for students and 10-month employees. Buncombe County Schools declared a closure but provided an optional teacher workday for staff.
In addition to these closures, Cherokee County Schools implemented a two-hour delay, suspending bus services due to icy roads. Graham County Schools also closed, allowing staff to use the day for work. Haywood County Schools announced a remote learning day, coupled with an optional workday for teachers.
Jackson County Public Schools and Macon County Schools both announced delays, with Jackson County implementing a two-hour delay and Macon County a three-hour delay, both citing unsafe road conditions. Madison County Schools closed for the day, offering an optional workday for staff.
Mayland Community College and Mitchell County Schools also declared remote learning days. Yancey County Schools announced a remote learning day and pledged to assist families facing WiFi connectivity issues.
The weather conditions prompted these decisions, with temperatures in the Asheville area reported at 39 degrees, dropping to a low of 19 degrees overnight. A chance of snow showers was forecasted at 40%, with daytime snow accumulation expected to reach half an inch.
As the day progressed, snow showers were anticipated to end by 8 p.m. A-B Tech Community College announced a delayed opening, starting at 10 a.m. due to the weather.
This series of school cancellations reflects the impact of inclement weather on educational institutions in the region, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by schools during winter months.
Officials have emphasized the importance of safety for students and staff, leading to these precautionary measures. Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.
