School Closures, Early Dismissals Announced Ahead of Severe Weather Expected on Thursday

School districts across West Alabama announced their instruction plans ahead of severe weather that is expected to impact the area on Thursday.

As previously reported, parts of West and Central Alabama was upgraded to an "enhanced risk" with a potential for severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, damaging winds up to 70 mph and quarter-sized hail.

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The following school districts across the region have announced their plans:

Tuscaloosa City Schools

"Due to severe weather predictions for our area tomorrow afternoon, the Tuscaloosa City Schools will implement an early release schedule, Thursday, February 16. Both meals and transportation will be provided as part of the early dismissal.  Elementary schools including Tuscaloosa Magnet Schools and The Alberta School of Performing Arts will dismiss at 11:30 AM; Middle Schools will dismiss at 12:00 PM; High Schools and S.T.A.R.S. Academy will dismiss at 12:30 PM."

Fayette County Schools

Fayette County Schools will host a remote learning day Thursday due to the threat of severe weather.

Walker County Schools

Walker County Schools will have a virtual learning day on Thursday due to inclement weather.

Lamar County Schools

Lamar County Schools will be closed Thursday due to inclement weather. Teacher will inform students of plans for remote learning assignments.

Shelton State Community College

"Due to the threat of severe weather predicted for the Tuscaloosa area, Shelton State Community College will close early on Thursday, February 16, at 10:00 a.m.  This closure includes both campuses.  All activities scheduled after this time are canceled."

The University of Alabama

"Due to the threat of severe weather, UA will suspend normal operations beginning at 12:30 p.m. Thursday."

If a tornado warning is issued in our area, Townsquare Media Tuscaloosa Operation Storm Watch will provide you with live and local team coverage, including wall-to-wall weather with James Spann.

This post will be updated as decisions regarding early dismissals and closures are made public, so check back to stay up to date on the latest.