News Summary
Recent winter weather has resulted in hazardous road conditions across the Columbia area, prompting local school districts in Richland and Lexington counties to implement a 2-hour delay for classes on Friday. With temperatures dropping and the potential for refreezing, officials are prioritizing the safety of students and staff. Various schools and colleges have also adjusted schedules or moved to e-learning days, while public transportation and municipal services experience disruptions. Residents are advised to exercise caution as the weather conditions continue to evolve.
Winter Weather Causes Delayed Starts in Midlands Schools
The Columbia area is feeling the effects of a recent winter storm that left behind hazardous road conditions. As a new day approaches, local school districts are making adjustments to ensure the safety of their students and staff. Early Wednesday morning marked the end of the snow, but remnants of the storm are still causing some disruptions.
A Cautious Approach to Safety
Schools in Richland and Lexington counties have decided to implement a 2-hour delay for classes on Friday. While the snow and ice accumulation has largely melted away, the temperatures have dropped, causing some of the leftover wet patches to refreeze overnight. This has raised significant concerns about dangerous driving conditions on Thursday evening, with locally predicted lows hitting around 22 degrees.
By delaying the start of school, all routes can be operated in daylight, improving visibility and reducing risks for students who ride the bus. Such proactive measures are in place to ensure that everyone can arrive at school safely.
What to Expect on Friday
Here’s a quick rundown of the scheduled changes for Friday in the Columbia and Lexington areas:
- Lexington-Richland 5: All schools and offices will operate on a 2-hour delay, and there will be no 3K preschool programs.
- Lexington 1: Schools will have a 2-hour delay; however, preschool half-day classes are canceled.
- Lexington 2: Schools will open on a 2-hour delayed start with afternoon dismissals occurring at their normal times. Also, 3K half-day classes will be canceled.
- Lexington 3: Start times will be pushed back by 2 hours, and bus schedules will be adjusted accordingly.
- Lexington 4: Schools will function on a 2-hour delay, then resume their regular schedules afterwards.
- Richland 1: Elementary schools will start at 9:30 a.m., middle schools at 10:45 a.m., and high schools at 10 a.m.; unfortunately, no breakfast will be served.
- Richland 2: Schools will also see a 2-hour delay, with adjustments to both bus and car rider timings.
Broader Impact of the Winter Weather
This winter storm has caused more than just school delays. Earlier in the week, some districts opted to cancel classes or switch to e-learning days to maintain safety standards. Various colleges and universities, including Clafoun University and several local colleges, also announced closures or delays in operations.
Additionally, public transportation services and municipal functions have been noticeably affected. Residents are reminded that a cold weather advisory remains in effect, indicating that black ice could still pose a significant threat on the roads.
Local authorities continue to monitor road conditions closely and urge everyone to exercise extreme caution while traveling. It’s essential to stay updated as situations can change rapidly.
Looking Ahead
With all the moving parts involved, school district officials are committed to keeping safety at the forefront of their decisions. Expect regular updates as the situation progresses, and don’t forget to check back for the latest information!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Rare Winter Weather Hits Columbia
Lexington County Schools Adjust Schedule for Winter Weather
Midlands Universities Prepare for Snow-Related Scheduling Changes
Winter Weather Causes Snow Accumulation Across Central South Carolina
Midlands Universities Respond to Winter Weather Challenges
Midlands Universities Shift to E-Learning Due to Snow
Columbia Universities Remain Open Despite Winter Weather Warnings
Confusion Over Weather-Caused Schedule Changes in Columbia
Winter Weather Causes School Closures and Delays in Columbia, S.C.
Winter Storm Warning Issued for South Carolina
Additional Resources
- ABC Columbia: School Closings & Delays
- WLTX: Midlands Students Returning to Classrooms
- The State: School Closings and Delays
- KOMU: Mid-Missouri Schools Announce Closures
- WISTV: Midlands School Districts Announce Delays
- Wikipedia: School Closures
- Google Search: School Closures News
- Google Scholar: School Delays and Closures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closures
- Google News: School Delays Weather
