Winter Storm Brings Closures, Delays, and Disruptions Across PCCC and North Jersey

This past weekend was a difficult one, with an epic snowstorm arriving late Saturday and intensifying into a blizzard by Sunday morning. Families prepared by going to the grocery store and gathering food and essentials to get through the storm. As severe weather continued throughout Sunday, all schools, stores, and non‑essential businesses were closed for Monday and possibly Tuesday, depending on conditions.

Families and students are still dealing with the effects of the storm. Students are unable to attend school when buildings must close, and many parents may not be able to get to work because of hazardous roads and widespread shutdowns. Community college students are also affected, since they cannot go to campus during the closures.

The aftermath of the storm is still visible, with streets and sidewalks covered in snow and many schools remaining closed. Hopefully, all families and community members are safe as they navigate this stretch of severe winter weather.

Regional Impact and Statewide Conditions

Snowstorms can be hazardous due to icy roads, exposure to cold temperatures, and power outages. New Jersey was declared a state of emergency by Governor Mikie Sherrill because of the snowstorm on January 25, 2026. North Jersey, including Passaic County, was affected by between 6 and 16 inches of snow. NJ Transit, one of the most used transportation systems, was suspended on Sunday. Transportation resumed on Monday, January 27, 2026. As this disruption unfolded, many people faced challenges in their daily routines.

PCCC Closure, Delays, and Remote Learning Adjustments

Although Christmas had long passed, it seemed like the snow didn’t get the memo. A snowstorm swept through the nation, and New Jersey and New York were expected to be hit the hardest with around 17 inches of snow.

As a result, almost every school and college throughout the district was shut down, including Passaic County Community College. Residents of the home of the Panther could expect a quiet day indoors Monday, as all in‑person lectures were canceled. However, students were still expected to attend remote classes.

Additionally, classes scheduled before 10:20 a.m. on the morning of the 27th were either moved online or canceled.

The closure and delays impacted students who commute to campus and rely on public transportation or the school’s shuttle services. Faculty members contacted students with instructions about online classes or cancellations as conditions improved.

How Students Were Notified

Students were notified in several ways. On January 25, 2026, after the state of emergency was declared and transit was suspended, students received calls, messages, and emails informing them that classes would be held remotely. On January 26, 2026, students were advised that due to inclement weather, in‑person classes would begin at 10:20 a.m.; before that time, classes would be remote.

Campus hours and services also changed over the past two days due to the weather, according to Public Safety Officers.

Aftermath and Continuing Effects

The aftermath of the storm continues to affect the community, with streets and sidewalks still covered in snow and many schools remaining closed. Families and students are hoping for a safe return to normal routines as cleanup efforts continue.

by Ashlee Griggs, Raynier Lora, Daniel Ramos, Yuleymy Vazquez