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Inclement Weather

Decision-Making Process to Delay or Cancel School

All initial decisions to delay or cancel will be made by 5:15 a.m.

Each storm is different, and there is no exact science to predict how the weather will develop or how it will impact our buses, roads, and school operations. We always make the safest and most informed decision for our students, families, and staff. 

Thank you for your patience and understand as we navigate unpredictable winter conditions.

Extreme Cold

Oil City Area School District relies on information and guidelines from the National Weather Service for determining when to delay or cancel school for extreme cold.

The District will close on days when the sustained temperature and/or wind chill are below -15. According to this chart from the National Weather Service, temperatures with wind chills in this range are considered dangerously cold if exposure is over 10-15 minutes long. For students who walk to school or wait at bus stops, we consider extreme cold to be a safety issue. 

  • The National Weather Service issues a Wind Chill Advisory when wind chills are -15 or colder.
  • The National Weather Service issues a Wind Chill Warning when wind chills are -25 or colder.

Snow

Several factors are taken into account when deciding to delay or cancel school for snow. That includes the amount of precipitation, snow accumulation, and road conditions. 

Before 5:00 a.m. our bus contractor drives through the district to assess the conditions of main roads and side streets. We may also consult with PennDOT and city personnel regarding weather forecasts and road conditions, as well as neighboring school districts.

The Superintendent also keeps a close eye on the National Weather Service outlook and multiple weather forecasts.