Washtenaw County, MI, January 15, 2026
Washtenaw County has announced widespread school closures due to significant snowfall and icy road conditions. The Washtenaw Intermediate School District, along with several other institutions, canceled classes to prioritize the safety of students and staff. The National Weather Service issued an advisory for hazardous road conditions, prompting educational institutions to act swiftly in response to the severe winter weather.
Winter Weather Hits Washtenaw County: School Closures Announced
Significant snowfall and icy roads lead to widespread school shutdowns across the region.
ANN ARBOR, MI – On Thursday, January 15, 2026, Washtenaw County faced impactful winter weather as significant snowfall and icy road conditions prompted the closure of multiple schools and programs. The Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD) took swift action, announcing that all its programs, including High Point School, Progress Park, and services for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students, would be closed to ensure the safety of its students and staff.
As conditions worsened, the National Weather Service issued an advisory indicating hazardous road conditions due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. This proactive response reflects the growing emphasis on safety within our educational institutions—a commendable focus that emphasizes the well-being of our younger generations amidst winter’s challenges.
Extensive School Closures Across Washtenaw County
In addition to WISD, a number of other educational institutions in the area also announced closures. The following districts have suspended classes for the day:
- Ann Arbor Academy
- Ann Arbor Public Schools
- Arbor Preparatory High School
- Central Academy
- Chelsea School District
- Court Involved Youth – WISD
- Dexter Community Schools
- Early College Alliance-Eastern
- East Arbor Academy
- Father Gabriel Richard High School
- High Point School – WISD
- Life Enrichment Academy
- Lincoln Consolidated Schools
- Michigan Islamic Academy
- Milan Area Schools
- Multicultural Academy
- Northstar Montessori Preschool
- Progress Park – WISD
- Red Oak – WISD
- Saline Area Schools
- South Arbor Charter Academy
- South Pointe Scholars Charter Academy
- St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Elementary School
- St. Paul Ann Arbor
- Washtenaw Intermediate School District (WISD)
- Washtenaw International High School
- Westfield Charter Academy
- Young Adult Programs and Services – WISD
- Ypsilanti Community Schools
Weather Impacts on Education and Community
The widespread school closures across the county indicate the severe impact of the winter storm. Educational institutions, dedicated to the welfare of their students, communicated early about the cancellations as part of their commitment to safety. As the situation continues to develop, decision-makers remain attentive, with many districts indicating that future updates about afternoon or evening activities will be provided as conditions evolve.
Residents are advised to stay informed through local news and official school district communications. This approach encourages the community to remain engaged and responsive to changing circumstances, particularly concerning weather-related interruptions.
Supporting Local Businesses Amid Adverse Weather
While school closures may temporarily disrupt educational routines, they also prompt opportunities for local businesses to innovate. Entrepreneurs in Washtenaw County have demonstrated resilience and creativity in navigating adverse weather by adapting their services to meet community needs at these times. Whether through the provision of online learning resources, tutoring, or delivery services, local businesses play a crucial role in supporting families during such events.
Conclusion and Call-to-Action
As Washtenaw County experiences another winter weather event, the response from educational institutions and local businesses highlights the community’s determination to stay safe and supportive. These closures, while necessary, are reminders of our collective responsibility to prioritize safety and stability. Residents are encouraged to stay updated and support local businesses as they innovate to weather the storm.
For more detailed information regarding school operations, updates are available on respective school district websites. Stay safe, warm, and engaged in Washtenaw County’s dynamic community.
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the school closures in Washtenaw County on January 15, 2026?
Significant snowfall and icy road conditions led to the closure of multiple schools and programs. The Washtenaw Intermediate School District announced that all its programs and administrative offices would be closed due to hazardous road conditions.
Which districts in Washtenaw County closed schools?
Several educational institutions announced closures, including Ann Arbor Academy, Ann Arbor Public Schools, Chelsea School District, and Ypsilanti Community Schools, among others.
How can residents stay informed during weather-related school closures?
Residents are advised to stay updated with local news and official school district communications for the latest information on school operations and any further closures or delays.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Date of Event | January 15, 2026 |
| Reason for Closures | Significant snowfall and icy road conditions |
| Main District Affected | Washtenaw Intermediate School District |
| Number of Schools Closed | Multiple, including major districts |
| Community Recommendations | Stay informed through local news and official communications |
Now Happening on X
- @Local4News (January 15, 2026, 1:00 AM) A thick blanket of snow has covered Metro Detroit, prompting numerous delays and difficult road conditions, affecting travel and safety. View on X
- @detroitnews (January 14, 2026, 6:20 PM) Winter Weather Advisory issued as snow leads to crashes in Metro Detroit, highlighting ongoing road hazards and the need for caution. View on X
- @furlow224 (January 15, 2026, 10:32 AM) Criticism of the new mayor for lack of snow removal efforts during a blizzard in Detroit, with no plows or salt trucks seen on city streets. View on X
- @CityofDetroit (January 14, 2026, 7:29 PM) With temperatures dropping into the teens and wind chills in single digits, the City of Detroit is activating overnight shelter and daytime respite locations to protect residents from the bitter cold. View on X
- @CBSDetroit (January 9, 2026, 5:00 PM) Inkster police are investigating a fatal shooting, while Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield’s public investiture ceremony takes place, amid ongoing local safety concerns. View on X
- @DanaAfana (January 13, 2026, 5:19 PM) Dozens gathered at City Council demanding an end to ICE activities in Detroit and urging it to become a sanctuary city, following discussions on police cooperation. View on X
- @DetRewardsTV (January 12, 2026, 5:04 PM) Weekly top three crime cases in Detroit include a homicide, non-fatal shooting, and larceny, with rewards up to $5,000 for information. View on X
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vehicle Fire Causes Significant Traffic Disruptions on I-94
Building Sustainable Communities: Veridian at County Farm
Ann Arbor Schools Launch Home Construction Initiative
Thunderstorms Bringing Much-Needed Rain to Southeast Michigan
Trump Threatens to Redirect Federal Funding from Harvard
Birmingham Attorney Kijewski Enters 2026 Attorney General Race
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
