Hurricane Helene Approaches: School Closures Across Alabama
As we brace for the arrival of Hurricane Helene, good folks in Alabama are getting ready to weather the storm. Reports indicate that Helene could hit Florida’s Big Bend region as a major hurricane late tonight or early Friday. So, if you live in the state, it’s time to pay attention.
Storm Update and What to Expect
The latest news from the hurricane center tells us that Helene isn’t expected to be the fearsome Category 4 storm it was once predicted to be at landfall. However, don’t let that lull you into a false sense of security—this storm is still projected to be quite large and move quickly, meaning we can expect strong winds and heavy rain to whip through Alabama.
Alabama will start feeling the effects of Helene late tonight, with strong winds and rain making their presence known into Friday morning. Forecasts have warned that winds could gust hard enough to cause damage, bringing down trees and power lines, particularly in the southeast and eastern parts of the state. It’s a good time to secure your outdoor belongings and make sure your emergency supplies are stocked up.
School Closures and Altered Schedules
In response to the approaching hurricane, schools across Alabama are beginning to announce closures or modified schedules to keep students and staff safe. Here’s a quick rundown of what to look out for:
- Auburn City Schools – Closed Friday
- Barbour County Schools – Closed Friday
- Blount County Schools – 2-hour delay Friday
- Chambers County Schools – Virtual learning Friday
- Dothan City Schools – Closed Friday
- Etowah County Schools – 2-hour delay Friday
- Eufaula City Schools – Closed Friday
- Geneva County Schools – 2-hour delay Friday
- Houston County Schools – 2-hour delay Friday
- Jackson County Schools – Remote learning Friday
- Jacksonville City Schools – Closed Friday
- Lee County Schools – Remote learning Friday
- Madison County Schools – E-Learning Friday
- Opelika City Schools – Remote learning Friday
- Phenix City Schools – Virtual on Friday
- Piedmont City Schools – 2-hour delay Friday
- Pike County Schools – 2-hour delay Friday
- Randolph County Schools – Remote learning Friday
- Troy City Schools – Delayed one hour on Friday
As always, it’s important to keep an eye on local announcements as this list can change as the storm progresses. Stay in touch with your local news sources to check for updates on school schedules and other important alerts.
What You Can Do
So what can you do as Hurricane Helene approaches? Here are a few quick tips:
- Secure your property: Bring in any loose items from your yard that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Stay informed: Monitor local news channels and weather updates. It’s essential to know what’s happening in real-time.
- Prepare an emergency kit: Make sure your household has water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, batteries, and necessary medications.
- Check on neighbors: Especially those who might need assistance—like the elderly or anyone with disabilities.
Let’s all take care to stay safe and be prepared for what Helene might bring. With community spirit and a little preparation, we can weather this storm together.
