October surprise

More than an inch of snow has fallen across some areas of Highland and Adams counties this morning, prompting school delays in Greenfield, Fairfield, and Adams County/Ohio Valley Schools. Hillsboro City Schools and Lynchburg-Clay Schools are closed Tuesday.

Greenfield and Fairfield schools are on a two-hour delay Tuesday. Adams County/Ohio Valley Schools are on a 90-minute delay.

Hillsboro City Schools Superintendent Rick Earley said this was the first weather-related school closing in the month of October that he can recall.

The unusual October snowstorm is associated with Hurricane Sandy, which pummeled the East Coast Monday night.

The National Weather Service expects the snow to end around noon Tuesday.

Today will be very windy, with a northwest wind 28 to 31 mph and gusts as high as 50 mph.

Rain and light snow is expected Tuesday night, with a around 35.

ODOT crews have been dispatched this morning to treat for snow and ice, according to District 9 Public Information Office Kathleen Fuller.

Pavement is very wet and slick, and with high wind gusts, it is prone to
freezing or "black ice" conditions. Motorists need to be especially cautious
when traveling over bridges or overpasses, where surface temperatures are
likely to be colder.

With additional precipitation and high winds anticipated throughout the day,
motorists will need to exercise additional caution and allow additional
travel and stopping time. Drivers will also need to keep watch for and pay
heed to downed trees and power lines.

The last measurable October snowfall in the area was in 1993.