Ridgway School District R-2 in Colorado started classes one hour late on January 10, 2026, because of heavy snow and icy roads. Officials made this choice to keep students and staff safe as winter weather hit the San Juan Mountains area hard.

Weather Conditions Prompt the Delay

Overnight snow blanketed Ridgway with up to four inches, making roads slippery and visibility low. The National Weather Service noted temperatures around 20 degrees Fahrenheit, which added to the risks for morning travel.

School leaders watched forecasts closely and decided on the delay early that day. This gave road crews time to plow and salt paths before buses rolled out.

In recent weeks, Colorado has faced stronger storms. Data shows snowfall in the Rockies jumped 20 percent this year compared to last, linked to La Niña patterns.

Local reports confirm similar issues in nearby areas like Denver and Colorado Springs, where snow totals reached over a foot in some spots.

Impact on Students and Families

The delay shifted start times, with Ridgway Elementary beginning at 9 a.m. and Ridgway Secondary at 9:10 a.m. This change helped families avoid rushing on dangerous roads.

Parents expressed relief for the extra time but noted challenges with work and childcare. Some shared stories of helping neighbors clear driveways in the tight-knit community.

Schools used the time to check heating systems and clear walkways. Staff arrived early to prepare, ensuring a smooth day once classes began.

For students, the later start meant less disruption to learning compared to a full closure. Many appreciated the chance for more sleep during the cold snap.

Working parents often rely on flexible schedules or community support during these events. In small towns like Ridgway, people step up to watch kids when needed.

Broader Winter Trends Across Colorado

This delay fits into a pattern of weather disruptions statewide in January 2026. Districts in Denver and Colorado Springs also reported delays or closures due to the same storm system.

Experts point to climate shifts bringing more intense winters. The U.S. Climate Prediction Center reports higher snowfall in western states this season.

Other regions feel the impact too. For example, parts of the Midwest saw over a foot of snow, leading to widespread school changes.

Here is a table of recent school delays in affected areas:

This data highlights how the storm moved through the state, affecting education in multiple spots.

Communities adapt with better tools like weather apps and alert systems. Ridgway’s quick response shows effective planning in action.

Safety Measures and Tips for Families

District officials stress safety as the top priority. They remind everyone to check updates through school apps or websites.

Experts suggest simple steps to handle winter commutes. Families can prepare by dressing kids in warm layers and packing car emergency kits.

Here are key safety tips for snowy school days:

• Check road conditions before heading out.
• Leave extra time for slow travel on ice.
• Teach children to watch for slippery spots.
• Sign up for district weather alerts.
• Keep blankets and snacks in vehicles.

These actions reduce risks and make delays easier to manage. Local groups often share resources to help during storms.

Looking Ahead to More Weather Challenges

Forecasters predict more snow in the coming days, which might bring further delays. The district will keep monitoring and update families as needed.

This event points to the need for strong policies in snowy regions. As winters grow tougher, schools focus on balancing education with protection.

In the end, such decisions protect lives and limit lost class time. Share your thoughts on weather-related school changes in the comments, and pass this article to friends dealing with similar issues.