Western North Carolina students faced another day of disruptions on February 23, 2026, as lingering effects from recent winter weather led to school closures, remote learning days, and delayed openings across the region. The disruptions, impacting schools in several counties near the Tennessee border, arrive as freezing temperatures and the potential for accumulating snow continue to pose challenges for morning commutes and student safety. The widespread school changes highlight the ongoing impact of winter storms on daily life in the mountainous areas of the state, and underscore the importance of staying informed about local conditions.
The recent weather system, which brought snow to parts of Western North Carolina on February 22, continues to influence school operations. While some areas received only a few inches, higher elevations are bracing for additional snowfall and strong winds, creating hazardous travel conditions. School officials are prioritizing the safety of students and staff, leading to the hard decisions regarding closures and schedule adjustments. Parents and students are urged to monitor local news and school district websites for the latest updates.
School and System Closures and Delays
Here’s a breakdown of the school closures, delays, and remote learning announcements as of February 23, 2026. This list is based on the latest available information and is subject to change.
College and University Impacts
- A-B Technical Community College: A two-hour delay was implemented, starting at 10 a.m., with the campus remaining closed for the remainder of the day. All evening classes have been canceled. An update regarding the status of classes for February 24 has not yet been determined.
- Blue Ridge Community College: No information was available regarding closures or delays.
- Southwestern Community College: No information was available regarding closures or delays.
K-12 School Districts Affected
- Asheville City Schools: Schools are operating on an optional workday for students. This instructional day will be made up on the scheduled Teacher Workday on March 27.
- Avery County Schools: All students will participate in a remote learning day.
- Buncombe County Schools: All schools are closed.
- Haywood County Schools: Schools are closed, with a remote learning option available. February 23 is designated as an optional teacher workday.
- Henderson County Public Schools: A two-hour delay is in effect. All morning programs, including childcare services and breakfast, will also follow the delayed schedule.
- Jackson County Public Schools: Schools are closed, and February 23 is designated as an optional teacher workday.
- Madison County Schools: Students will participate in a remote learning/optional teacher workday.
- Mitchell County Schools: All schools are closed.
- Watauga County Schools: Schools are operating on an inclement weather remote learning day.
- Yancey County Schools: Students will participate in a remote learning day, with teachers providing assignments via email, Google Classroom, or ClassDojo. Students are expected to log in with their teachers at 11 a.m.
School systems in Burke, Graham, McDowell, Polk, Rutherford, Swain, and Transylvania counties have not yet announced closures or delays as of this update. Parents and students in these areas are encouraged to check with their local school districts for the latest information.
The National Weather Service in Greenville-Spartanburg continues to monitor the situation, with a Winter Weather Advisory remaining in effect until midnight Monday night for Haywood, Madison, and Yancey counties. Valley snowfall totals are expected to range from 1 to 3 inches, with up to 5 inches in higher elevations near the Tennessee border. A Winter Storm Warning remains in effect above 3,500 feet in Mitchell County, where 1 to 11 inches of snow are possible.
The broader February 2026 North American blizzard, dubbed Winter Storm Hernando by The Weather Channel, has brought significant disruptions to the Northeastern United States, with some areas receiving up to 37.9 inches of snow. The blizzard has caused power outages affecting over 600,000 customers and prompted states of emergency in multiple states, including Modern Jersey and New York.
Officials are urging residents to delay non-essential travel, monitor updates, and check road conditions via 511 before venturing out. The combination of snow and gusty winds could down tree limbs and cause isolated power outages, particularly along exposed ridges from Burnsville to Spruce Pine and Cherokee.
School officials will continue to assess conditions and develop decisions regarding school operations as the weather evolves. The next update regarding school closures and delays is expected on the morning of February 24, 2026. Stay tuned to local news and school district communications for the most current information.
Have thoughts on how the school closures are impacting your family? Share your experiences in the comments below, and please share this article with anyone who might find it helpful.
