Several Southern Indiana Schools Cancel Classes Due to Tropical Storm Helene's High Winds

Indianapolis (Hoosier Enquirer)— Several southern Indiana school districts have announced closures or transitions to remote learning for Friday due to high winds and heavy rains expected from the remnants of Tropical Storm Helene. The storm, which was previously a Category 4 hurricane when it made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend area, has since weakened to a tropical storm and is continuing its northward track through Georgia and into Indiana.

The National Weather Service has issued a high wind warning for much of the state, with gusts expected to reach 50-60 mph, making travel and outdoor activities hazardous. In addition to the winds, heavy rain is forecasted, leading to concerns about flooding in some areas. Southern Indiana is expected to bear the brunt of the storm's impact, prompting several school districts to cancel in-person classes as a precaution.

Schools Closed or Transitioning to Virtual Learning:

- Borden Henryville Community Schools

- Clarksville Elementary, Middle, and High Schools

- Clarksville Community Schools

- Crawford County Community Schools

- Greater Clark County Schools – Virtual learning only

- Jennings County

- Lanesville Community Schools (Harrison Co.)

- Madison Consolidated Schools

- New Albany Floyd County Schools

- Scott County District 2 schools

- Silver Creek Community Schools

- South Harrison Community Schools

- St. Michael School (Clark Co.)

- Switzerland County Schools

Districts with bolded names, such as Greater Clark County Schools, have opted for virtual learning to ensure students can continue their education safely despite the weather. Others, particularly those in more rural areas, have chosen to cancel classes entirely due to the potential power outages and unsafe road conditions.

Local officials and weather experts are urging Hoosiers to prepare for the possibility of downed trees, power lines, and other disruptions to infrastructure. Emergency crews across southern Indiana have been put on standby, and residents are advised to secure loose objects outdoors and avoid unnecessary travel during the worst of the storm.

The Indiana Department of Transportation (INDOT) has also issued warnings about potential road closures and delays due to flooding or debris caused by high winds.

While Indiana often deals with severe weather, it’s rare for tropical storm remnants to have such a significant impact this far inland. As the storm weakens further, weather experts will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day to ensure public safety.

Hoosiers are encouraged to stay updated on local news and weather alerts as the situation develops.