Miami-Dade County Public Schools (M-DCPS) will stay open on Thursday, September 26, despite the looming threat of Hurricane Helene approaching the Florida coast. The school district has implemented several precautionary measures to ensure the safety of students and staff, as weather conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day due to the storm.
According to the official statement from M-DCPS, all outdoor activities have been moved indoors at educational centers. Outdoor sports events have been canceled, while extracurricular programs and after-school care will continue but also move indoors. Night classes will proceed as scheduled without any changes.
Preventive Measures in Miami-Dade Schools
Miami-Dade County is closely collaborating with the National Weather Service (NWS) and the Office of Emergency Management. They are continuously monitoring the hurricane's path to adjust their plans based on the storm's development. Decisions regarding potential school closures in Florida will be made in consultation with these entities, always prioritizing the safety of students and school staff.
One of the main concerns is the possibility of strong, sustained winds. If winds reach or exceed 35 miles per hour (mph), the school bus service will be immediately suspended to avoid any risks during student transportation.
Hurricane Helene's Impact on South Florida
Hurricane Helene is expected to make landfall along Florida's Gulf Coast on Thursday night. However, its impact will be felt across the state much sooner. South Florida, including the Miami-Dade area, will experience heavy rains and winds that could cause localized flooding and power outages.
Monroe and Broward Counties Take Drastic Measures
On Thursday morning, the hurricane is anticipated to strengthen, with its outer bands beginning to affect the southern part of the state. Schools in Monroe County will be closed due to forecasted sustained winds of 30 to 40 mph in the Lower and Middle Keys, and 25 to 35 mph in the Upper Keys, from Islamorada to Ocean Reef.
Broward County Schools have also announced the closure of all educational centers on Thursday, including the suspension of extracurricular activities and after-school care services.
Ongoing Preparations in Miami-Dade
While Miami-Dade Schools will remain open on Thursday, school authorities urge parents, students, and staff to stay alert to weather updates and any changes in the situation. M-DCPS will continue working with local and national authorities to make informed decisions in the coming hours based on the hurricane's progression.