More Metro Detroit Schools Announce Closures for Jan. 16 After Midweek Snowstorm Leaves Roads Hazardous and Side Streets Unplowed
After a midweek snowfall brought several inches of accumulation to Metro Detroit, the winter weather impacts are continuing into Friday. Cold temperatures prevented full melting, and overnight refreezing created hazardous patches on neighborhood roads.
Detroit Public Schools Community District officials said they made the decision to close all schools after assessing reports of icy side streets and incomplete snow removal efforts across the city. Many neighborhoods remain difficult for buses to safely navigate.
DPSCD leaders added that anticipated snowfall later in the day could worsen travel at dismissal time, creating additional safety concerns.
Background: How the Closures Developed
The winter weather disruption began on Wednesday, when accumulating snow created challenging driving conditions throughout Southeast Michigan. Road crews worked through the afternoon and evening, but frigid air returned overnight.
By Thursday morning, freezing temperatures led to slick conditions on both major and secondary roads. School districts issued delays and closures, and parents reported difficulty navigating side streets and school parking lots.
As the region entered Thursday night, meteorologists warned that another round of light-to-moderate snowfall was likely, especially during early afternoon hours on Friday. This forecast prompted administrators across multiple districts to reevaluate operational plans.
Timeline of Events Leading to Friday’s Closure
Wednesday
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Snowfall begins across Metro Detroit in the early morning.
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Most districts remain open but issue travel warnings.
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Afternoon accumulation leads to slower commutes and delays.
Thursday
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Overnight refreezing creates slick roads.
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Many districts close or delay classes.
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Road conditions remain variable, especially on residential streets.
Thursday Evening
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Forecast models show additional snowfall expected during school hours Friday.
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DPSCD reviews neighborhood road conditions and transportation concerns.
Friday (Jan. 16)
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Detroit Public Schools announce full closure.
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Multiple suburban districts extend closures due to safety concerns.
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Crews continue clearing streets and sidewalks throughout the day.
What Detroit Public Schools Officials Are Saying
DPSCD issued a statement that the decision was made based on three main factors:
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Uncleared side streets across Detroit neighborhoods
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Expected low attendance due to weather and transportation difficulties
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Anticipated snowfall near dismissal time, increasing safety risks
Administrators emphasized that student safety remains the guiding priority for closure decisions. They noted that bus routes become especially challenging when residential roads remain icy or unplowed.
The district will continue assessing conditions and will provide updates on weekend activities and any potential schedule adjustments for the following week.
Which Metro Detroit Districts Are Closed?
While district-specific lists may change throughout the morning, several systems across Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties have announced closures or virtual learning days. These may include:
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Detroit Public Schools Community District
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Several Wayne County suburban districts
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Select Oakland County school systems
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Schools in southern Macomb County affected by lingering ice
Some districts on the outskirts of Metro Detroit are open but are cautioning families about icy surfaces and slow travel.
Parents are encouraged to confirm status through official district websites or local television closings lists.
Public Reaction From Parents and Teachers
Families across Detroit and nearby suburbs expressed relief that closures were announced with enough notice to plan ahead. Many parents reported difficulty navigating roads on Thursday, especially in areas where plowing has been inconsistent.
Teachers and staff also shared concerns about parking lot conditions and walkway safety. Several commented online that sidewalks remained untreated in many residential areas, making travel hazardous for students who walk to school.
However, some parents who rely on school for childcare expressed frustration about managing work schedules during consecutive closures. Community centers and after-school programs are adjusting hours to support families.
Transportation and City Services
Detroit’s Public Works Department continues to clear major routes and emergency priority streets. However, side streets remain a challenge due to the combination of deep cold, compacted snow, and parked vehicles blocking plow access.
School bus providers reported that many routes were still unsafe, especially in areas where students live along narrow residential roads. Transportation leaders say that even small patches of ice can cause delays or pose risks to students boarding buses.
Public safety officials recommend slowing down on all residential streets and allowing extra travel time through Sunday morning.
What Happens Next
Forecasters indicate that temperatures will remain cold but should gradually warm enough to improve road conditions by the weekend. Additional light snow is still possible, but no major storms are currently expected in the immediate short term.
School districts will assess buildings, parking lots, and transportation routes over the next 24 hours. Most systems are expected to reopen Monday, weather permitting.
Officials urge families to monitor district notifications, as weather-related decisions may shift based on changing conditions.
NEWS SUMMARY TABLE
| Key Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Event | Metro Detroit school closures due to winter weather |
| Location | Detroit, Wayne County, Oakland County, Macomb County |
| Date | Friday, Jan. 16 |
| Who Is Affected | Students, families, teachers, bus drivers |
| Current Status | DPSCD closed; multiple districts closed or delayed |
| What Readers Should Know | Hazardous side streets and expected new snow prompted widespread closures |
FAQ SECTION
1. Why are Detroit Public Schools closed on Jan. 16?
Because of uncleared side streets, expected low attendance, and additional snowfall forecast during dismissal hours.
2. Which Metro Detroit districts are closed?
Detroit Public Schools and multiple suburban districts. Status may vary by city, so families should check district websites.
3. Will schools reopen on Monday?
Most districts expect to reopen, but that depends on road conditions and updated weather forecasts.
4. Are buses running on Friday?
No. DPSCD buses and transportation services are not operating due to unsafe neighborhood routes.
5. How much snow did Metro Detroit receive?
Accumulation varies, but generally several inches fell Wednesday, followed by icy conditions Thursday.
6. Is more snow expected?
Yes, light additional snowfall is possible Friday afternoon.
7. What should parents do today?
Monitor official district updates, plan for at-home care, and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
CONCLUSION
Metro Detroit continues to feel the impact of midweek winter weather, prompting widespread school closures for Jan. 16. Detroit Public Schools and several suburban districts are prioritizing student safety as icy streets and additional snowfall create transportation and attendance challenges. Families should stay updated through district alerts as crews work to clear roads and improve conditions for the coming week.
