Winter Storm Watch Hits First Coast Region
The First Coast region, including Duval County and Jacksonville, is under a Winter Storm Watch as an intense winter weather system approaches, bringing the possibility of snow and icy conditions. Weather forecasts predict a significant drop in temperatures, with highs only reaching the 40s and lows plummeting to the 30s and 20s. Wind chills could make it feel even colder, raising concerns about icy roadways, particularly on bridges and overpasses in inland southeast Georgia.
With the potential for hazardous travel conditions, local school districts, universities, and health organizations are actively monitoring the situation. Several institutions have announced closures or schedule changes as a precautionary measure.
School Districts Respond to Winter Weather Threat
Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) announced that schools will remain open on Tuesday, January 21, but have not yet decided on closures for Wednesday, January 22, when the winter weather is expected to peak. Similarly, Nassau County schools plan to stay open Tuesday while closely monitoring conditions in partnership with local emergency management.
In Camden County, schools will operate on Tuesday but will remain closed on Wednesday, January 22, citing forecasts of icy roads and freezing temperatures. All after-school activities for both days have been canceled. Glynn County schools also plan to remain open Tuesday, with after-school programs ending early at 4 p.m. However, due to potential black ice and freeze advisories, all schools in the county will close on Wednesday.
Ware County schools announced an early dismissal on Tuesday, with schools closing 90 minutes ahead of schedule. All schools will remain closed on Wednesday, January 22, and after-school programs for both days have been canceled. Similarly, Brantley and Charlton County schools will dismiss early on Tuesday and remain closed Wednesday, with Charlton schools planning to reopen Thursday.
Universities and Public Health Services Adjust Operations
Florida State University (FSU) has canceled classes and suspended business operations at its Tallahassee and Panama City campuses for both Tuesday, January 21, and Wednesday, January 22. The FAMU-FSU College of Engineering is also included in the closure. Florida A&M University (FAMU) will shut down operations entirely across its campuses during the same period.
The Coastal Health District, covering multiple counties in southeast Georgia, announced that all operations, including health department clinics and offices, will suspend services starting at 12 p.m. on Tuesday. The suspension will continue through Wednesday, with a delayed reopening planned for Thursday, January 23, at 11 a.m.
With the First Coast preparing for its first significant winter storm of the season, residents are urged to exercise caution and stay updated on further developments regarding school closures, university operations, and weather conditions. Local officials continue to emphasize safety, especially on potentially icy roads and bridges.
