Central NC Schools Shut Down Amid Severe Weather Threat

0:00The latest headlines, weather, and stories right here on Durham News Today. School districts across central North Carolina shut down on Monday ahead of a serious severe weather forecast. Places like Wake County, Durham Public Schools, Johnston County, Orange County, and Chapel Hill Carborough all cancel classes due to a tornado watch. And a level four out of five risk of storms from the National Weather Service. The warnings predicted high winds and tornadoes similar to the last level four day back on March 18th, 2021. But by 4 p.m., the watch is lifted with just scattered rains showing up. Right when school would have been wrapping up. Spokes people for the district stand firm on the choice. They stress keeping kids, teachers, and bus drivers safe, especially since 60 to 70 percent of students ride buses that can't hand a winds. Over 30 to 35 miles per hour sustained, or gusts up to 40 to 45. District leaders considered early dismissal, but nixed it because the storm timing lined up with bus routes,

1:01leaving no safe window to get everyone. Home, remote learning got a look too, but there wasn't enough notice to prep materials. In the end, no makeup day is required. Wake and Durham will dip into their bank time to meet the state's 1,025 hour instruction requirement without extending the year. This episode is brought to you by our sponsor. See the episode description. If sleep podcasts are your thing, this is your pillow. Build for comfort and calm. S-O-L-I-SOLY-PILLOW.COM