Severe Weather Causes School Schedule Adjustments in Midlands

News Summary

On March 5, 2025, severe weather warnings prompted multiple school districts in the Midlands to alter their schedules for the safety of students and staff. With high winds exceeding 65 mph expected, several districts, including Orangeburg and Richland County, announced closures. Others opted for delayed starts or implemented eLearning days. The National Weather Service has issued tornado watches and residents are advised to take precautions amid potentially hazardous conditions. The forecast predicts significant rainfall and gusty winds throughout the day, with a focus on safety as the primary concern.

Severe Weather Forces Changes in Midlands School Schedules

March 5, 2025, has arrived with some serious weather warnings in the Midlands area, and school districts are doing everything they can to ensure the safety of students and staff. A powerful storm system is on the horizon, bringing high winds that are expected to gust over 65 miles per hour, making it unsafe for typical school bus operations.

School Closures and Adjustments

In reaction to the expected severe weather, multiple school districts have already made adjustments to their schedules. The Orangeburg County School District and the Richland County School District Two are both closing their doors for the day, which means all afternoon activities and athletic events have also been called off.

Fairfield County Schools is opting for a 3-hour delay in their start time, giving parents and students a bit of extra time to prepare for the chaotic weather. Similarly, Lexington One has decided to cancel classes entirely for students, but staff is still expected to report by 10 a.m. Not to worry, though; afternoon professional development sessions will be going ahead as planned.

Lexington Two has announced a two-hour delayed start. However, students enrolled in 3K half-day classes will not be coming to school today, but that doesn’t mean the fun is over; afternoon activities are still on the docket!

eLearning and Delayed Starts

Lexington County School District Three is switching gears to an eLearning Day, which means all after-school events are canceled. Meanwhile, Lexington District Four will also have a two-hour delay for their schools. Not forgetting School District Five, they too will have a two-hour delay, offering breakfast to students upon their arrival.

In a change affecting many high school students, the SAT exam originally scheduled for today has been postponed to March 11, 2025. So, students can take a breath; there is now more time to prepare!

Weather Warnings and Precautions

The National Weather Service is urging everyone to be aware of the troubling conditions. Tornado watches are currently in effect for several counties until 1 p.m. today, with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and the potential for tornadoes expected during the main storm window, which is from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. Areas such as Lee, Sumter, eastern Calhoun, Clarendon, and eastern Orangeburg counties are considered to be at the greatest risk for severe weather today.

Residents are advised to take some precautions to keep themselves safe and secure. It’s a good idea to ensure devices are fully charged and outdoor items are secured to prevent damage from the high winds. Hazardous conditions may lead to downed trees and power lines, putting many at risk for power outages.

What to Expect After the Storm

Once the storm passes, residents can expect gusty winds to stick around throughout the day, reaching speeds of 30 to 45 mph. Rainfall predictions show that up to three-quarters of an inch could accumulate, with some areas potentially receiving even more, leading to localized flooding in certain spots.

Finally, the forecast indicates a 100% chance of rain today with temperatures expected to climb into the low 70s before taking a noticeable dip. The combination of dry conditions and high winds keeps fire danger a concern, ensuring everyone stays alert.

Be safe out there, Midlands! It’s a day to stay indoors as much as possible, and let’s all look out for each other during this wave of severe weather.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

School District Cancels Classes Due to Tropical Storm Debby
Midlands Universities Prepare for Severe Weather Disruptions
Three Felons Arrested in Lexington County After Major Firearms Seizure
Severe Thunderstorms Impact Midlands Residents
Severe Weather Leads to School Closures in Columbia, SC
Midlands Schools Prepare for Severe Weather on March 5, 2025
Severe Weather Forces Lexington County Schools to Cancel Classes
Snowstorm Blankets Midlands with Dangerous Conditions
Severe Winter Weather Expected to Hit Columbia, SC
Columbia, South Carolina Braces for Wintry Weather

Additional Resources

• WLTX: Severe Weather Forecast South Carolina
• The State: Weather News
• ABC Columbia: Storms in the Midlands
• Wikipedia: Tornado Warning
• WIS TV: Severe Storms Possible
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Severe Weather