Severe Weather Forces School Closures Across Lowcountry and Midlands

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – Several school districts across the Lowcountry and Midlands will suspend classes Wednesday due to a severe weather forecast. The Charleston County School District announced the closure in anticipation of dangerous conditions, including possible tornadoes and damaging wind gusts.

Berkeley County and Dorchester District 4 schools will also close for the day, while Dorchester District 2 will shift to eLearning procedures. Colleton County and Orangeburg County schools are similarly canceling classes, with afterschool activities postponed.

The Orangeburg County School District reported, “Forecasts indicate the potential for isolated tornadoes, sustained winds between 36 to 46 miles per hour, and wind gusts reaching up to 75 miles per hour.” These conditions are expected to impact the region between 6:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.

The Beaufort County School District has announced a full cancellation of school and afterschool programs, emphasizing safety as the primary concern. “BCSD doesn’t make these decisions lightly; we have many factors to consider, especially wind gusts over 40 mph that prohibit the safe travel of school buses,” the district noted.

In the Midlands, school changes have been similarly widespread. Many districts are altering their schedules in response to the approaching storm system. Fairfield County Schools will be closed, and all athletic events are suspended.

Lexington School District One has opted to cancel school while maintaining professional development activities for employees. However, other Lexington District schools will operate on a delayed start, ensuring staff arrive two hours later than usual, while afternoon schedules remain unaffected.

Richland One and Richland Two will both follow a two-hour delayed schedule, with adjustments made for school start and bus operations. The districts have indicated that breakfast will not be served due to the delays, although lunch will be provided when classes commence.

The SAT exam scheduled for high schools originally slated for March 5 has been pushed back to March 11 due to the severe weather disruption.

As storm forecasts evolve, local districts are advising parents and students to stay informed and prepare for potential changes. Updates will be communicated through district channels as new information becomes available.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.