The Northern Shenandoah Valley saw its first major snowstorm of the season Wednesday, with snow beginning about mid-morning and continuing as a wintry mix of snow and sleet throughout the day.
The region was expected to see about a foot of snow with 14 to 15 inches at higher elevations and snow tapering off about midnight.
Around the area, town and county offices in Clarke, Frederick, Shenandoah and Warren counties and the city of Winchester closed for the day.
Area schools were also closed on Wednesday, opting to take the snow day rather than holding virtual classes.
On Wednesday afternoon, Shenandoah County Public Schools announced a snow day for today. Students will then have virtual classes as usual on Friday as well as Monday and Tuesday before beginning winter break.