Schools in Upstate South Carolina Prepare for Hurricane Helene

Schools in Upstate South Carolina Prepare for Hurricane Helene

As Hurricane Helene makes its way toward the Upstate, schools in Greenville, Anderson, and Spartanburg counties are shifting to e-learning for Friday, September 27. This decision comes amidst a flood watch that is expected to last through Friday afternoon.

Spartanburg County Schools Announce E-Learning

In Spartanburg, all districts are planning to transition to e-learning on Friday. Districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 7 have canceled after-school activities for both Thursday and Friday, citing safety concerns regarding potential high winds and rainfall. The decision was made to allow families to prepare for the impending weather.

Greenville County Schools Follow Suit

Greenville County Schools are also cancelling after-school programs on Thursday while maintaining regular classes. All students will switch to e-learning on Friday, with classes being conducted online through Google Classroom. Tim Waller, Director of Media Relations, noted that forecasts predict wind conditions that surpass safe levels for operating school buses.

Anderson County Schools Monitor the Situation

Anderson County schools will remain open on Thursday, but will shift to e-learning on Friday. Officials are urging families to follow weather advisories as the impact of the hurricane approaches. Specific changes to after-school activities are expected to be communicated to families later.

University Preparations

While Limestone University has canceled classes and events on both Thursday and Friday, other colleges in the area vary in their responses. Furman University plans to continue normal operations but is closely monitoring the forecast. Conversely, Wofford College and Clemson University are both keeping an eye on the situation, with Clemson announcing they are prepared for significant rainfall and potential flooding.

Weather Implications Ahead

Predictions indicate that significant rain—up to 10 inches—could fall in areas such as Greenville, with severe conditions expected to peak on Thursday. Communities are advised to remain vigilant as the impact of Hurricane Helene unfolds.

As this situation develops, schools and local officials will continue to monitor conditions and keep residents informed regarding safety and operational changes. Parents are encouraged to stay updated and prepare their families for the upcoming weather events.