(Updated) Berlin Schools Closed Friday Due to Due to Winter Storm

(Updated: 8:53 p.m.)
After just a half day Thursday, Berlin students find themselves on another break before school truly kicks back into session.

Berlin Public Schools have announced they will remain closed on Friday as the winter storm continues to bring a blanket of snow and cold temperatures across the state.

The closing is one of a few for Berlin, which cancelled all activities Thursday night and dismissed students early Thursday, the students first day back from winter break, due to weather concerns.

(Updated: 1:04 p.m.)
The first winter storm of 2014 is already making an impact, forcing closures and impacting travel conditions as Berlin braces for a storm that weather experts are saying will drop around six inches of snow on town.

Berlin schools closed on a half-day schedule, dismissing early to avoid evening troubles, and the town has placed a parking ban in effect from 4 p.m. Thursday until the roads have been cleared.

The Berlin-Peck Memorial Library closed at 3:30 p.m. Thursday as well. All after school activities have also been cancelled Thursday, with more potential cancellations on the way Friday.

According to the National Weather Service, Berlin is expected to see around six inches of snowfall, with most falling during the overnight hours. Up to an inch is expected during the day and early evening Thursday, as well as during the day on Friday.

The weather will also bring cold temperatures, leading the state to open emergency shelters.

“Partially activating the State Emergency Operations Center will allow us to quickly respond to any problems that may arise and coordinate any resources that may be needed across the state as we head into the height of the storm tonight,” Gov.  Dannel P. Malloy said. 

“In addition to the winter storm, we are also warning residents to be prepared for a severe cold weather outbreak. Yesterday, I directed the Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security to work with our social services agency to activate the state severe cold weather protocol which enables us to help our most vulnerable populations access sheltering.  If you are in need of a shelter, please call 2-1-1.”

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