Severe Weather Forces School Closures Across Alabama and Louisiana

EAST BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) – Numerous school districts in Louisiana and Alabama have announced cancellations and delays for Monday, March 31, following the threat of severe weather, including thunderstorms and heavy rain.

The Zachary Community School District stated it will remain closed today due to the dangerous weather and hazardous road conditions. Parents are advised that if their child is already on a bus, they can pick them up at their respective schools when conditions improve.

Additionally, Ascension Public Schools will exercise flexibility in tardy times today, while the East Baton Rouge Parish School System confirmed that tardies and absences will be excused until 9:30 a.m. due to severe weather. In a related incident, officials from Live Oak Middle School announced that students will be excused if they do not report to school, as lightning struck the facility, resulting in power outages and loss of internet and air conditioning services.

The National Weather Service issued warnings for Central Alabama, indicating an enhanced risk for severe thunderstorms late Sunday night through Monday afternoon. Damaging winds, tornadoes, and large hail are forecasted as the strongest storms approach.

In Alabama, several school districts are already responding to the weather threat. School systems such as Selma City Schools are switching to virtual learning today, while others like Dallas County Schools are completely closing. Hale County and Marengo County schools will operate on a two-hour delay, among many others adjusting their schedules in anticipation of inclement weather.

As the storms develop, updates will be provided on any additional school closures or delays. Parents and students are encouraged to remain alert to changing weather conditions and school announcements.