Schools closing early, out Friday for storm

Area schools will be closed Friday, after having closed early Thursday, because of heavy rains on Thursday and expected continued rains and floods through Thursday night and through the day on Friday.

With storms associated with Hurricane Helene traversing through the area, and dumping anywhere from 4 to 10 inches in the region — Surry County, Mount Airy schools and Elkin schools are closed Friday, after having sent students home early Thursday so students and staff were able to get home and avoid potential flooding.

In Mount Airy. pre-kindergarten classes dismissed at 12:45, other B.H Tharrington students along with Jones Elementary School students dismissed from classes at 1 p.m. Mount Airy Middle School and High School dismissed at 2 p.m.

“All after-school events and activities will be cancelled for today,” said Carrie Venable, chief officer of communications and technology, Thursday morning when the city schools announced plans.

In Surry County, all classes were dismissed at 2 p.m., and all after-school events and activities were canceled, according to Hollie Lyons, Surry County Schools communications coordinator.

“Due to the hazardous weather outlook for tomorrow, which could impact student drivers, bus routes, and overall safety, Friday, Sept. 27, will be a remote learning day for students and staff. Students should check their learning management system for assignments and instructions from their teachers,” she said late Thursday morning.

“Safety is the top priority for Surry County Schools, and we believe this decision to be in the best interest of our students, staff, and families.”

Officials in Elkin said schools also closed at 1:30 p.m. on Friday.

Area officials cautioned residents and travelers to take normal precautions — stay off of roads covered by standing water, prepare for situations such as power outages, and to take care when traveling.