News Summary
Middle Tennessee is experiencing multiple school closures and delays as extreme cold temperatures and a significant flu outbreak impact the region. Weather advisories highlight wind chill values dropping between zero and 7 degrees Fahrenheit. With snow expected to accumulate, many school districts are taking precautionary measures to ensure safety for students and staff. The combination of severe weather and rising flu cases has led to the cancellation of classes across various districts, while updates on school operations continue to be announced.
Middle Tennessee Faces School Closures and Delays Due to Extreme Cold and Flu Outbreaks
In Middle Tennessee, multiple school districts have announced closures or delayed starts scheduled for Friday, February 21, as a result of ongoing extreme cold temperatures and a widespread flu outbreak. The combination of weather conditions and health concerns has prompted educational institutions across the region to take precautionary measures to ensure student and staff safety.
Weather Conditions Prompt School Closures
Following a winter storm earlier this week, many parts of Middle Tennessee are experiencing dangerously cold temperatures. The National Weather Service has issued a Cold Weather Advisory for the region, with wind chill values expected to dip between zero and 7 degrees Fahrenheit on Friday morning. These frigid conditions pose risks such as frostbite and hypothermia, especially for vulnerable populations and those traveling outdoors.
Precipitation is forecasted to evolve into snowfall early Friday morning, with accumulating snow expected to impact travel across the area. Snow is projected to start in the western parts of Middle Tennessee between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., gradually spreading eastward during the morning hours. Cities like Nashville and along Interstate 65 are expected to see snow between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m., while areas on the Cumberland Plateau are anticipated to begin experiencing snow between 6 a.m. and 9 a.m.
The snowfall is predicted to continue steadily throughout the day, with some regions experiencing heavy bands of snow, which could reduce visibility and complicate travel plans. Total snow accumulations are expected to range between 4 inches and 6 inches for most of Middle Tennessee, potentially affecting road conditions, airport flights, and daily commutes.
Impact on School Operations and Transportation
Several school districts have responded to the adverse weather conditions by announcing closures or delays. Cheatham County Schools will not hold classes on Friday; however, their extended daycare program will operate from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding extra-curricular activities and community facility use. Additionally, childcare providers in Robertson County will close for the day, as confirmed by the Schools Director.
Other districts, including Dickson County Schools, have chosen to close their schools entirely due to a high number of flu cases among students and staff. Data indicates that Tennessee ranks #4 nationally for flu activity, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) flagging the state as experiencing high flu levels. This widespread illness is contributing to increased absences and health concerns within schools.
Additional Weather Impacts and Safety Advisories
Aside from snowfall, parts of Tennessee have already experienced significant storm damage from recent heavy rains. The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch across portions of Middle Tennessee that remains in effect until 7 a.m. Sunday, as additional rainfall and localized flooding are possible.
Due to the combination of low temperatures and storm activity, residents are advised to take precautions against the extreme cold. Suggestions include dressing in layered clothing, protecting exposed skin, and safeguarding vulnerable individuals, pets, and household plumbing from the bitter cold.
Ongoing Updates and Public Safety
The list of school closures and delays will be updated as more announcements are made by local districts and authorities. Travelers are urged to stay informed about road conditions and weather forecasts to avoid hazardous travel situations or airport disruptions.
Overall, the region is preparing for a challenging weather day with significant snowfall, cold temperatures, and related impacts. Authorities and schools continue to monitor conditions closely to ensure community safety and well-being throughout the weekend.
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Additional Resources
- FOX 17 News
- Wikipedia: School Closure
- The Tennessean
- Google Search: Nashville school closures
- WSMV News
- Google Scholar: Nashville school closures
- News Channel 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closures
- The Tennessean – Weather Closures
- Google News: Nashville area school closures
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