Florida Schools And Universities Close Ahead Of Hurricane Helene

Dave McCurley boards up the windows to his home in advance of Tropical Storm Helene, expected to make landfall as a hurricane, in Ochlockonee Bay, Fla., Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Gerald Her

As Hurricane Helene approaches Florida's Gulf Coast, several school districts in the region have taken precautionary measures by announcing closures. Hillsborough County Public Schools, which serves the city of Tampa, will be closed on Thursday following discussions with local emergency management officials. Pinellas County schools and offices will also be closed on Thursday.

Sarasota County has announced that public schools will be closed on both Thursday and Friday. In addition, Orange, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties have decided to close schools in anticipation of the storm's impact.

Florida State University and Florida A&M University have also closed campuses.

School closures in Hillsborough, Pinellas, Sarasota, Orange, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties.

FAMU's Developmental Research School (K-12) closed for student and staff safety.

Several universities in the state have also made closures. Florida State University's Tallahassee campus closed on Wednesday and plans to resume normal operations on Monday. Florida A&M University (FAMU) has canceled classes through Friday and suspended all academic operations to address potential disruptions caused by the storm.

FAMU's Developmental Research School (K-12) closed on Wednesday and will remain closed on Thursday and Friday to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and staff.