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MONADNOCK REGION, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) Area schools will dismiss students early Friday as a winter storm is expected to bring several inches of snow and hazardous travel conditions to southwestern New Hampshire.
The National Weather Service in Gray, Maine, has issued a winter storm advisory calling for 4 to 7 inches of snow across portions of southern, central and northern New Hampshire, as well as southwest Maine. Snow is expected to begin around midday Friday and continue into early Saturday morning.
Forecasters warn that travel conditions are likely to worsen quickly Friday afternoon and evening, with the heaviest snowfall rates — potentially exceeding an inch per hour — possible during the evening commute. Roads are expected to become snow-covered and slippery as the storm intensifies.
In response, SAU 29 announced all of its schools will operate on an early release schedule Friday, Feb. 20, to allow students and staff to travel home before conditions deteriorate.
Release times are as follows:
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Chesterfield School – 11:55 a.m.
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Harrisville School – 11:20 a.m.
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Jonathan Daniels Preschool – No afternoon session
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Keene Elementary School – 12:10 p.m.
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Keene Middle School – 12:55 p.m.
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Keene High School – 1:03 p.m.
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Marlborough School – 11:50 a.m.
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Marlow School – 11:15 a.m.
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Nelson School – 11:30 a.m.
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Westmoreland School – 11:45 a.m.
District officials said families are being notified in advance so they can make any necessary child care or transportation arrangements. Additional updates will be shared if conditions change.
The National Weather Service advises motorists to use caution if travel is unavoidable and to keep emergency supplies, including a flashlight, food and water, in their vehicles. Up-to-date road conditions are available at newengland511.org.
Residents are encouraged to monitor local forecasts as the storm approaches and to plan accordingly for potentially difficult travel Friday afternoon and evening.