Snow Update for Scotch Plains-Fanwood

Schools closed, transit suspended as crews work to clear roads after major winter storm

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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A major winter storm has hit the Scotch Plains-Fanwood area, dumping over a foot of snow and causing widespread disruptions. All public schools in the district will be closed on Tuesday, February 24th, and NJ Transit's Raritan Valley Line service will remain suspended. Municipal offices in both Scotch Plains and Fanwood will have delayed openings as public works crews continue around-the-clock efforts to clear roads.

Why it matters

The heavy snowfall and high winds from this storm have created hazardous conditions across the region, prompting school and transit closures to ensure public safety. Local governments are working to restore normal operations as quickly as possible, though the extent of the storm means cleanup efforts could last throughout the week.

The details

According to Scotch Plains Mayor Josh Losardo, the blizzard brought "more snow than we have seen in many years" with over a foot of accumulation in most areas. The heavy, wind-driven snow made road conditions extremely challenging for public works crews. In Fanwood, the Department of Public Works has been working non-stop since Sunday evening to clear the streets, and these efforts are expected to continue through the week.

  • The storm hit the region on Monday, February 23rd.
  • All Scotch Plains-Fanwood public schools will be closed on Tuesday, February 24th.
  • NJ Transit's Raritan Valley Line service will remain suspended on Tuesday, February 24th.
  • Scotch Plains municipal offices will open with a two-hour delay on Tuesday, February 24th.
  • Fanwood Borough Hall will have a delayed opening on Tuesday, February 24th.

The players

Josh Losardo

The mayor of Scotch Plains, New Jersey.

Fanwood Department of Public Works

The municipal department responsible for snow removal and road maintenance in Fanwood, New Jersey.

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What they’re saying

“Last night's blizzard brought more snow than we have seen in many years. Snow came hard and fast, wind made every stretch of road a battle, and it simply did not let up before dropping more than a foot in most places. By any measure, this was one of the more punishing storms our Township has faced.”

— Josh Losardo, Mayor of Scotch Plains (Facebook)

“This winter has brought challenges for us all. I want to thank our hardworking DPW team for working around the clock through these challenges, our emergency responders and you, our residents, for your patience as we continue working to restore services to normal.”

— Josh Losardo, Mayor of Scotch Plains (Facebook)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This storm highlights the importance of well-resourced and responsive public works departments in communities that face frequent severe winter weather. The coordinated efforts of local government and residents will be crucial in the days ahead as the region recovers from this punishing blizzard.