Severe Weather Disrupts Education in Upstate South Carolina
The aftermath of Hurricane Helene continues to affect communities across the Upstate of South Carolina, prompting various schools and colleges to alter their schedules. With significant flooding and power outages reported, educational institutions are taking necessary measures to ensure safety and provide support to students and local residents.
Clemson University Provides Shelter and Support
Clemson University has stepped up to aid those in need by opening three facilities to both campus members and the public. According to a post on the university’s Facebook page, Littlejohn Coliseum and the Snow Family Outdoor Fitness and Wellness Complex will be accessible on Sunday, September 29, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. These facilities will offer a safe space for community members seeking respite from the storm’s aftermath.
The Littlejohn Coliseum has several services available, including power stations, WiFi, limited food and drinks, and six showers. For families, the Snow Family Outdoor Fitness and Wellness Complex will provide four showers. It is important to note that minors must be accompanied by an adult while using these facilities.
Other Institutions Respond to Hurricane Helene’s Impact
Limestone University has announced that all classes are canceled on Monday, September 30, due to ongoing fuel shortages and power outages. A post on their Facebook page emphasized their main concern for everyone’s safety, stating they would continue to evaluate the situation daily.
Anderson University has also suspended classes and activities through Tuesday as power remains out across the campus and surrounding areas. A Saturday press release noted that students who can return home safely are encouraged to do so. However, the Student Center will remain open for students needing access to facilities.
Furman University declared a campus closure through Wednesday, citing a lack of electricity and updates from Duke Power indicating that restoration may not occur until Tuesday, if not later. The university’s statement detailed the significant challenges posed by these outages for students, staff, dining services, and activities.
Further Cancellations and Remote Operations
Wofford College has also canceled classes through Tuesday. Meanwhile, Spartanburg Community College campuses will remain closed through Monday. Spartanburg Methodist College has decided to cancel classes for the entire week, as their fall break begins on Thursday.
USC Upstate is closed on Monday, with classes canceled through Tuesday. The campus will follow a remote schedule for non-essential employees during this time, as the university continues to address power outages.
Converse University has officially canceled classes and activities through Monday. A release from the college cited severe weather conditions and power issues as significant challenges faced by students and staff.
School Districts Implement E-Learning Days
In addition to college closures, local school districts are also making adjustments. All Anderson County Districts will implement an e-Learning Day on September 30, providing flexibility for families without power or internet access. Greenville County Schools announced they would close on September 30 and October 1, explaining that widely reported outages render e-learning impractical.
Similarly, all schools in Spartanburg County have confirmed closures for Monday and Tuesday. Most districts indicated that e-learning is unlikely due to the extent of power outages affecting students and staff alike.
Conclusion
As the Upstate continues to recover from the effects of Hurricane Helene, schools will be assessing the situation day by day to ensure the safety and well-being of their students and communities. Further updates are expected as power restoration progresses throughout the region.
