News Summary
As severe weather approaches, school districts across the Midlands are taking precautionary measures, announcing closures and delays. The storm, set to hit on March 5, 2025, is predicted to bring strong winds and potential tornadoes, prompting districts like Orangeburg and Berkeley to cancel classes for safety. Parents are advised to stay informed and prepare for possible disruptions while eLearning protocols will be implemented in Dorchester. As conditions worsen, officials remind everyone to prioritize safety and stay updated through various communication channels.
Severe Weather Prompts School Closures Across the Midlands
The Midlands is bracing for a stormy Wednesday, March 5, 2025, as multiple school districts announce closures and delays in anticipation of severe weather. With forecasted conditions that include strong wind gusts reaching up to 45 mph and the risk of isolated tornadoes, safety is the top priority for schools and families.
What to Expect on Wednesday
The hours of concern for severe weather are predicted to span from 6 a.m. until noon. Residents are advised to stay alert as the forecast suggests sustained winds between 36 to 46 mph, accompanied by gusts that could peak at an astonishing 75 mph. Given these conditions, various school districts have opted to take precautionary measures by canceling classes altogether.
School Closures in Orangeburg County
The Orangeburg County School District has made the decision to close all schools on Wednesday, following consultations with emergency management officials. In addition, all scheduled athletic events and extracurricular activities for the day have also been postponed. Parents should note that no breakfast will be served to students on this day.
Berkeley and Charleston Counties Follow Suit
Joining Orangeburg County, the Berkeley County School District has also announced complete school closures for the day. If you’re in the Charleston area, you’ll want to note that the Charleston County School District has suspended classes, with a makeup day conveniently planned for Monday, April 21.
Dorchester School Districts Adapt
The situation is slightly different in Dorchester, where Dorchester School District Two will be implementing eLearning protocols in response to the high winds. Meanwhile, Dorchester School District Four has taken a similar route as Orangeburg and Berkeley by closing schools altogether.
Colleton County and Technical Colleges
The Colleton County School District has also decided to suspend classes due to the anticipated high wind gusts and potential tornado activity. As for students planning to attend Orangeburg-Calhoun Technical College, they’ll still have a chance to attend class, as the college plans to open its doors at 12:30 p.m..
Stay Updated and Prepare
Parents and guardians should stay tuned for updates regarding conditions and school operations, as districts will be providing information through callouts, text messages, district websites, and social media channels. Given the possibility of power outages due to downed trees and limbs hitting power lines, it’s wise to stock up on essential supplies and prepare to stay indoors during the storm.
Important Safety Tips
Emergency officials have also reminded residents that a statewide burn ban is currently in effect due to low humidity and high winds, so it’s best to avoid any outdoor burning during this time. Preparation is key, and families are encouraged to check their emergency kits and ensure they have everything they might need to keep safe during the storm.
Concluding Thoughts
As the winds begin to pick up and the clouds roll in, everyone in the Midlands is encouraged to stay safe, be aware, and keep an eye out for further updates. Let’s hope for the best and prepare for whatever Mother Nature has in store for us!
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Orangeburg County School District Closures
- ABC Columbia: Orangeburg County Schools To Close
- ABC News 4: Orangeburg County Schools Closure
- Live 5 News: Orangeburg County Schools Closure
- WLTX: Orangeburg Prepares for Severe Storms
- Wikipedia: Severe Weather
- Google Search: Severe Weather Alerts
- Google Scholar: Severe Weather Impact on Schools
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather
- Google News: School Closures Severe Weather
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
