Staff Editorial: Snow days do not just mean no school

Grab your snow shovels and your sunscreen. You will be needing both this year.
Some may consider the concept of climate change as liberal jargon or an issue of the past. But the truth is that without making changes now, future generations are at risk. There have been several attempts to delay climate change, such as the 2015 Paris Agreement. 193 countries agreed to try to ensure that the global temperature did not rise more than 1.5 degrees Celsius from pre-industrial temperatures for more than 20 years. But in 2024, the temperature rose 1.5 degrees. So 2024 could have been the start of a much greater climate issue that the Paris Agreement tried to solve.
NASA reports that the Earth’s average surface temperature reached a record high in 2024 with it being 2.65 degrees Fahrenheit warmer than in the mid-19th century. This means hotter temperatures, increased chances of drought, a longer wildfire season and a rising sea level. But how does the higher temperature correlate with more snow?
The key is the increased moisture. Hotter temperatures lead to more water evaporation, both on land and in the sea, which therefore creates more moisture in the air. This means that the drier places get even drier while other rain-prone areas see increased rainfall. Even though the temperatures go below freezing less often, when they do, it snows more due to the increased rain turning into snowfall.
Snow days are fun for students, and everyone loves a warm sunny day. However, these are caused by irreversible forces. Such drastic weather changes are something to be wary of. While we might be able to get outside more at the beginning of spring or have summer temperatures reach deep into fall, such “benefits” are extremely destructive to many communities, especially those of color or who may be experiencing homelessness.
The recent snow days are evidence that climate change is not just a national or state problem, but also a local one. Students, adults and all citizens should work toward resolving this issue. Every small action matters, whether it is reducing our carbon footprint or supporting policies that prioritize sustainability. If we do not act now, the climate will only worsen, making it impossible for the next generations to live safely.
Regardless of your love for cancelled school or a hot summer day, we only have one Earth to call home. We need to start treating it right.