
Okaloosa County School District officials say they’ve continued to coordinate with Okaloosa County Emergency Management – an arm of the Board of County Commissioners – to prepare for the cold weather that will freeze the area over the next couple of days.
The collaboration, led by Public Safety Director Patrick Maddox, has resulted in a decision to continue with the regular school schedule for tomorrow, Wednesday, January 17.
The latest update from the National Weather Service, as relayed by Director Maddox, assures that while temperatures are expected to dip below freezing, the likelihood of icy road conditions is minimal.
Additionally, a positive forecast indicates that temperatures will gradually rise above freezing throughout the day.
To address any potential concerns, Okaloosa Schools are implementing precautionary measures. Outdoor activities have been relocated indoors to provide a warmer environment for students. In an effort to combat the chilly weather, students are encouraged to layer their clothing for added warmth.
The decision to maintain the regular school schedule underscores the district’s commitment to prioritizing education while ensuring the safety and well-being of all students and staff, according to a press release from the Okaloosa County School District.
The district’s release added that Parents, students, and staff are encouraged to stay informed about any further updates through official channels, and the district remains vigilant in its efforts to provide a safe and comfortable educational experience for everyone.
Spinks Megginson, of Red Zone Weather, predicts lows in the high 20s Tuesday night and a low of 16 Wednesday night. It does not look like it will warm up much through the rest of the week.
One Hopeful Place, a homeless shelter for county residents in Fort Walton Beach, says it will open it’s cold weather shelter for those in need until at least 1/18/2024.