As a stubborn winter chill lingers into November 12, 2025, parents and students in the Tri-Cities region and across Kentucky are navigating a patchwork of school closings and delays. Icy roads and sub-freezing temps have forced districts to err on the side of caution, echoing last week's early frosts that already snarled commutes.
In the WJHL coverage area, encompassing Johnson City, Kingsport, and Bristol in Tennessee and Virginia, updates show at least a dozen schools opting for two-hour delays this morning. Johnson City Schools, for instance, cited slick conditions as the main culprit, with buses rerouted and classes pushed back to ensure safety. Officials there emphasized that while full closures were avoided, the decision wasn't taken lightly—balancing education needs against the risks of black ice.
Over in Kentucky, the story's much the same, if not grimmer. Floyd County Schools remain closed today, following Monday's shutdown, while Leslie and Meade counties have announced delays stretching into the afternoon. Breckinridge District reports over 5,000 students affected by the ongoing advisory, with warming centers opening in affected towns. It's a reminder of how even mild Southern winters can pack a punch when unexpected.
These disruptions, while necessary, highlight the growing unpredictability of seasonal weather patterns. One can't help but wonder how communities will adapt as these cold snaps become more routine.
