Will Manatee County schools close ahead of Hurricane Milton? What officials say

School District of Manatee County officials say all schools will be closed for several days this week as Hurricane Milton moves toward a predicted landfall on Florida’s west coast.

On Sunday afternoon, district officials announced that schools will be closed Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. All school activities, including sports, will be canceled on those days.

“We will keep you updated on this storm as we receive additional information about its impact on our schools,” the district said in an update on Sunday.

The district will keep parents updated via phone calls, emails and texts as well as on social media and the district’s website, school officials said.

Manatee County schools typically close for a day or more when severe tropical weather is anticipated. School buildings are used as evacuation shelters during hurricanes.

Manatee County schools were closed for three days due to Hurricane Helene.

“We encourage you all to take this time to prepare for the upcoming storm,” the school district said Sunday. “Please stay safe and we look forward to welcoming students, families and staff back in our schools and classrooms soon.”

This story was originally published October 6, 2024 at 1:08 PM.