Montreal School Closures: A Local’s Guide to Navigating Bad Weather Days
As a longtime Montrealer, I’ve weathered my fair share of brutal winter storms that bring the city to a standstill. When the snow piles up and the temperature plummets, knowing whether schools are open becomes crucial information for parents and students alike. Here’s my insider perspective on navigating school closures in Montreal for today or tomorrow.
Where to Find Official School Closure Information
The first rule of Montreal winter: never assume schools are closed just because there’s a blizzard. Our city is remarkably resilient to snow, but when conditions become truly dangerous, here’s where to check:
School Board Websites and Social Media
Each school board maintains its own closure policy. The major boards in Montreal include:
- English Montreal School Board (EMSB)
- Lester B. Pearson School Board
- Commission scolaire de Montréal (CSDM)
- Commission scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys
Their websites and social media accounts are always the most reliable sources for closure announcements, typically posted by 6:00-6:30 AM.
School-Specific Communication
Most schools now use email, text alerts, or apps like ClassDojo to communicate directly with parents. Make sure your contact information is up-to-date with your child’s school to receive these timely notifications.
Local Media
Montreal’s radio and television stations are invaluable during weather emergencies:
They maintain updated lists of closures during inclement weather events.
When Schools Typically Close
In my experience, Montreal schools close under these main circumstances:
Severe Snowstorms: When accumulation exceeds 30-40 cm with limited visibility and dangerous road conditions.
Extreme Cold: Schools sometimes close when temperatures hit -35°C or lower with the windchill factor, as frostbite can occur within minutes.
Ice Storms: Perhaps the most dangerous weather event, ice can cause power outages and make walking and driving treacherously unsafe.
Infrastructure Issues: Occasionally, schools close due to heating system failures, water main breaks, or power outages.
A Local’s Advice
After years of Montreal winters, I’ve learned some valuable lessons:
- Have a backup plan: Even with the best predictions, closure decisions sometimes come at the last minute. Always have a contingency childcare plan.
- Never rely on a single source: Check multiple official channels before making decisions.
- Trust your judgment: Sometimes buses run and schools remain open, but local conditions in your neighborhood might still be dangerous. Parents can always make their own call about their child’s safety.
- Prepare an emergency kit: Keep essential supplies at home including non-perishable food, water, flashlights, and first aid supplies.
Living in Montreal means embracing our winter reality. While school closures are relatively rare compared to other regions with milder winters, knowing where to find reliable information quickly is essential for every Montreal family. When in doubt, look out the window, check the official sources, and make the choice that keeps your family safe.
Related: Montreal Weather