Winter Storm Forces School Closures Across South Georgia, Florida

ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) – A winter storm system sweeping across South Georgia and Florida has prompted widespread school closures and early dismissals as officials brace for icy road conditions and freezing temperatures. Over 30 school districts and universities have announced closures or adjusted schedules for Tuesday and Wednesday, Jan. 21-22, 2025, as the region prepares for the worst of the weather.

Cook County, Crisp County, Dougherty County, and Lee County Schools are among the districts that will close entirely on Tuesday and Wednesday. Other districts, including Lowndes County and Valdosta City Schools, will remain open Tuesday but close Wednesday. Early dismissals are planned for several schools, with release times ranging from noon to 2 p.m. on Tuesday.

Georgia Southwestern State University and Wiregrass Georgia Technical College will also close, with classes transitioning to virtual learning. In Florida, Duval County Public Schools remain open Tuesday but are monitoring conditions for Wednesday. Florida State University and Florida A&M University have canceled classes and suspended operations for both days.

“Due to potential hazards such as black ice on roadways, impacts to power lines and trees, and freeze advisories forecasted for Tuesday night, all schools will be closed on Wednesday as a precautionary measure,” said a spokesperson for Glynn County Schools.

Weather models predict high temperatures in the 40s and lows in the 20s and 30s, with wind chills dropping into the 30s. The National Weather Service has warned of icy conditions on bridges and overpasses, particularly in inland areas of southeast Georgia.

Ware County Schools will release students 90 minutes early on Tuesday, while Charlton County Schools will cancel all after-school activities. Brantley County schools will dismiss early at 2 p.m. Tuesday and remain closed Wednesday.

In the Coastal Health District, all operations will be suspended at noon Tuesday and remain closed Wednesday, with a delayed opening planned for Thursday. Health department clinics and offices in Bryan, Camden, Chatham, and other counties will be affected.

Residents are urged to monitor local updates and avoid unnecessary travel during the storm. First Coast News will continue to update the list of closures as more information becomes available.