On March 17, 2026, several school districts in Western North Carolina announced cancellations and remote learning days due to inclement weather conditions. Asheville City Schools and Avery County Schools both declared remote learning days, while Buncombe County Schools opted for closure with an optional teacher workday.
In addition to these closures, Cherokee County Schools implemented a two-hour delay, advising that no buses would operate on icy roads. Graham County Schools also closed, allowing staff a workday to prepare for upcoming classes. Haywood County Schools followed suit with a remote learning day and an optional workday for teachers.
Jackson County Public Schools announced a two-hour delay, similar to Cherokee County, while Macon County Schools extended this delay to three hours, also suspending bus services. Madison County Schools closed for the day, providing an optional workday for staff members.
Mayland Community College and Mitchell County Schools both declared remote learning days, while Yancey County Schools announced a remote learning day and offered assistance to families facing WiFi issues.
The Asheville area experienced a temperature of 39 degrees, with a low of 19 degrees overnight. A 40% chance of snow showers was forecasted, with daytime snow accumulation expected to reach half an inch. Snow showers were predicted to end by 8 p.m.
These school cancellations reflect a broader trend of weather-related disruptions in the region, as local authorities continue to monitor conditions closely. The decision to close schools or shift to remote learning is often made to ensure the safety of students and staff during adverse weather events.
As the situation develops, officials are urging families to stay informed about any further changes to school schedules. The community is encouraged to prioritize safety and remain cautious on the roads during this winter weather event.
