Closure of schools in Florida due to the proximity of Hurricane Helene.

Hurricane Helene, which has rapidly gained strength, is expected to make landfall on the west coast of Florida in the coming hours, specifically in the Panhandle region. Authorities have issued warnings for coastal counties, urging residents to prepare for the impending arrival of the hurricane, which will bring dangerous storm surges and strong winds. Intense rainfall is expected with accumulations of up to 12 inches, which could lead to flash and urban flooding. The state capital, Tallahassee, is directly in the projected path of the hurricane.

Due to this threat, various schools and universities in the state have decided to temporarily close to protect the safety of students, educational staff, and families. Governor Ron DeSantis has declared a state of emergency in 61 counties to coordinate response efforts in light of the possible impact of the hurricane.

Closed Schools by City and County

Hillsborough County

• All schools will be closed from Wednesday, September 25, to Friday, September 27.

Pinellas County

• All schools will be closed from Wednesday, September 25, to Friday, September 27.

Pasco County

• The schools will close on Thursday, September 26.

Sarasota County

• All schools will be closed from Wednesday, September 25, to Friday, September 27.

Manatee County

• Todas las escuelas cerrarán el miércoles 25 y el jueves 26 de septiembre.

Orange County (Orlando)

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26. Extracurricular activities will end on Wednesday, September 25 at 6:00 p.m.

Osceola County

• Schools and offices closed on Thursday, September 26. Authorities will make a decision about Friday's classes.

Seminole County

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26.

Lake County

• Schools and offices closed on Thursday, September 26. The extracurricular activities on Wednesday will continue as planned.

Marion County

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26. West Port High School will open on Wednesday at 2:00 p.m. as a shelter for residents with special needs and then at 4:00 p.m. as a general shelter. Those seeking shelter may bring their small pets with them. For more information about the shelters, call the citizen information hotline at352.369.7500It seems there is no text provided for translation. Please provide the text you would like to be translated.

Volusia County

• Due to tropical storm Helene, extracurricular activities will be canceled on Wednesday, September 25, except for extended day enrichment programs. Schools and offices will be closed on Thursday, September 26, with no changes to operations on Friday.

Duval County (Jacksonville)

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27.

Clay County

• Schools and offices closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27.

Columbia County

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27.

Nassau County

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27.

Bradford County

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27.

Baker County

• Schools closed on Thursday, September 26, and Friday, September 27.

Closed Universities and Colleges

University of Florida (UF)

• He will announce his decision regarding the closures at noon on Wednesday, September 25.

Florida State University (FSU)

• Tallahassee campus closed from Wednesday, September 25 to Sunday, September 29.

Florida A&M University (FAMU)

• Classes canceled from Tuesday, September 24 to Friday, September 27.

University of Central Florida (UCF)

• Classes canceled on Thursday, September 26, with normal operations resuming on Friday, September 27.

University of South Florida (USF)

• Campus closed from Wednesday, September 25 to Saturday, September 28.

This temporary closure is being carried out as a preventive measure to mitigate the risks associated with the impact of Hurricane Helene. Authorities recommend that the public stay informed about weather updates and follow local guidelines.

Residents in affected areas are reminded to take the necessary measures to ensure their safety and that of their loved ones. For additional information about shelters and weather updates, please check the websites of the counties and schools.