On frigid morning, a slow start for some South Washington County Schools buses

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The sub-zero temperatures Tuesday morning led to delays on some District 833 bus routes, but most arrived to schools on time.

South Washington County Schools reported early Tuesday that engine fuel gelled in 15 buses after they started the morning routes, causing the buses to stall and delaying some student pickups. Replacement buses were sent immediately and the routes resumed. The district did not say which routes or schools were affected.

It was 11-below zero in Cottage Grove at 8 a.m.

The gelling occurred despite preventative efforts. Transportation Department staff worked Monday evening and early Tuesday to ensure all school buses started. The gelling happened after buses left for their routes.

"We apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused students and their families," the district wrote in a statement.

A normal school schedule was planned Tuesday in District 833.

In nearby Stillwater Area School District, Oak-Land Junior High in Lake Elmo was closed Tuesday after a power failure, according to the district.

-Scott Wente