Winter Weather Chaos: Cumberland County Schools Cancel Classes as Ice Storm Looms
FAYETTEVILLE, NC – Cumberland County Schools (CCS) abruptly closed all facilities Wednesday as an approaching winter storm threatens to coat roads with dangerous ice accumulations – marking the district’s first weather-related shutdown of 2025. The National Weather Service predicts up to 0.25 inches of freezing rain mixed with sleet across central North Carolina through Thursday morning.
District-Wide Closure Impacts 50K+ Students
CCS officials announced late Tuesday that all 87 schools would close February 19 while staff worked remotely. Superintendent Marvin Connelly Jr. emphasized that “student and employee safety remains our top priority” amid forecasts of hazardous travel conditions. The closure affects:
- 54 elementary schools
- 23 middle schools
- 10 high schools
- 12 specialty/alternative programs
Regional Domino Effect
| District | Wednesday Plan | Thursday Status |
|---|---|---|
| Robeson County | Remote learning | 2-hour delay |
| Hoke County | Closed | TBD |
| Fort Bragg DoDEA | Early release (1 PM) | Normal schedule |
The weather system has already forced multiple universities to adjust operations:
- Fayetteville Technical Community College: Remote classes
- Campbell University: Campus closure
- Fayetteville State University: Reduced staff operations
Community Ripple Effects
Cumberland County government offices closed completely Wednesday while Fayetteville city services halted at noon. Transportation officials warned drivers to avoid non-essential travel until temperatures rise above freezing Thursday afternoon.
“This storm’s timing creates particular challenges with morning road conditions,” said NWS meteorologist Alicia Walsh. “Black ice will likely persist through mid-morning even after precipitation stops.”
The CCS closure comes exactly one year after the district earned its fourth consecutive NC Purple Star Award for military family support programs. District officials confirm make-up days will follow existing academic calendar provisions.
