Important Disclaimer

Prediction Accuracy

While our algorithm maintains approximately 85-90% accuracy for clear-cut weather events, several factors can affect the reliability of predictions:

• Weather Forecast Changes: Meteorological conditions can shift rapidly, affecting the accuracy of underlying weather data
• Local Variations: Microclimates and local weather patterns may differ from regional forecasts
• Timing Sensitivity: Small changes in storm timing can significantly impact school closure decisions
• Regional Differences: Snow removal capabilities and closure policies vary widely between districts
• Non-Weather Factors: Equipment failures, staffing issues, or other emergencies may influence closure decisions

Data Source Limitations

Our predictions rely on weather data from government sources including NOAA and the National Weather Service. While these are authoritative sources, weather forecasting inherently involves uncertainty, especially for events more than 24-48 hours in advance. Forecast accuracy decreases with time, and unexpected weather developments can occur.

Coverage Areas

Our service covers all US ZIP codes, but prediction accuracy may vary by region due to:

• Availability and density of local weather monitoring stations
• Regional climate patterns and typical weather variability
• Historical data availability for model training
• Terrain effects on local weather conditions

District Policy Variations

School districts have widely varying policies for weather-related closures. Some districts close schools for relatively minor weather events, while others remain open during more severe conditions. Our algorithm attempts to account for regional patterns, but cannot capture the specific policies and risk tolerance of every individual school district.

Prediction Timing

School closure decisions are typically made by administrators several hours before school starts, often between 4:00 AM and 6:00 AM on the day in question. Our predictions are based on available weather forecasts and may not reflect last-minute changes in conditions or administrative decisions.

• Predictions are most accurate within 12-24 hours of the potential closure
• Overnight weather developments may not be reflected in earlier predictions
• Some districts make closure decisions the evening before, while others wait until morning
• Emergency situations may lead to unexpected closure announcements

Data Updates

While we strive to use the most current weather data available, there may be delays in data processing and updates. Weather conditions can change more rapidly than our system can process and reflect these changes.

User Responsibility

Users of this service acknowledge and agree that:

• They understand the limitations and uncertainties inherent in weather prediction
• They will not rely solely on our predictions for important decisions
• They will verify closure information through official school district communications
• They assume full responsibility for any consequences of decisions based on our predictions

Consequential Damages

We shall not be liable for any direct, indirect, incidental, special, consequential, or punitive damages arising from the use of our service, including but not limited to missed work, childcare arrangements, travel plans, or any other inconvenience or expense resulting from reliance on our predictions.

Recommended Usage

To get the most value from our service while understanding its limitations:

• Planning Tool: Use predictions as a planning aid to prepare for possible closures
• Early Warning: Consider high-probability predictions as early warnings to make contingency plans
• Educational Resource: Learn about weather factors that influence school closure decisions
• Conversation Starter: Discuss weather conditions and safety considerations with family

What NOT to Do

• Do not make definitive childcare or work arrangements based solely on our predictions
• Do not assume school is closed without checking official announcements
• Do not share our predictions as official school closure announcements
• Do not rely on predictions more than 2-3 days in advance for important decisions

Official Information Sources

Always verify closure information through these official sources:

• Your school district's official website and communication systems
• Local news stations and their websites/apps
• School district social media accounts
• Automated phone/email/text alert systems from your school
• Local government emergency management communications