Delta State University announced Wednesday afternoon a shift in class schedules as much of Mississippi braces for severe winter weather forecast to arrive this weekend.
The university in Cleveland announced that all classes scheduled for after 12:15 p.m. on Thursday will transition to online instruction. All labs and classes with clinical rotations will be rescheduled to an online format, as well. The entire campus apart from essential services will be closed Friday as the potential for dangerous weather heightens that afternoon.
University officials will meet over the weekend to assess conditions and announce plans for Monday.
“Delta State University will continue to prioritize the safety of its campus community and appreciates everyone’s patience and cooperation as weather conditions evolve,” an announcement from the school reads.
What should residential students do?
As part of the Wednesday announcement, Delta State officials “strongly encouraged” residential students to make plans to stay off campus if at all possible.
“All residential students who are able and have a reliable place to stay with family or trusted friends are strongly encouraged to leave campus during this time,” the announcement said. “Leaving campus helps reduce the risk and eases strain on essential services, allowing our staff and emergency personnel to focus on the students who must remain.”
It added that students with families close enough to drive to should consider bringing a friend along. Students are asked to pack any necessary personal items, medications, chargers, and academic materials.
For students who cannot leave campus, Delta State officials are working closely with them to have an on-campus plan in place.
How bad is the weather forecast for Cleveland?
According to the National Weather Service, significant weather is forecast to hit Cleveland, including freezing temperatures, mixed precipitation, and hazardous travel conditions.
NWS Jackson meteorologist Orion Jones said Wednesday morning that Cleveland has a 20% chance of one-inch ice accumulation but urged residents to check often for latest weather updates.