Due to updated forecasts and a slight shift in the track of Tropical Storm Francine, the Lafayette Parish School System (LPSS) has decided to close all public schools and the entire school system on Tuesday, September 10. Initially planned early dismissals have been canceled in favor of full-day closures as a precautionary measure.

The decision was made following a call with the National Weather Service at 4:45 p.m. on Monday, during which updated information about the timing and potential impacts of Tropical Storm Francine was shared. The storm is expected to bring severe weather conditions, including high winds and heavy rainfall, that could pose a risk to the safety of students and staff.

Superintendent Francis Touchet, Jr., stated, “We are urging parents and families to use this additional time to prepare for Francine’s arrival. Safety is our top priority, and we want everyone to have ample time to make the necessary preparations.” Residents are encouraged to visit GetAGamePlan.org for more information on how to prepare.

School Closures:

- Tuesday, September 10: All LPSS schools and system operations will be closed.
- Wednesday, September 11: Schools will remain closed as the storm is expected to impact Lafayette Parish with its strongest effects.
- Thursday, September 12: Schools will continue to be closed while administrators and facilities staff assess the damage to campuses to ensure a safe return for students and staff.

LPSS will provide ongoing updates through the J-Campus system, the LPSS social media channels, and updates here on our site. Parents and guardians are encouraged to stay connected for the latest information on school operations and reopening plans.

We will provide updates when and if more information becomes available.

LOOK: The most expensive weather and climate disasters in recent decades

Stacker ranked the most expensive climate disasters by the billions since 1980 by the total cost of all damages, adjusted for inflation, based on 2021 data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The list starts with Hurricane Sally, which caused $7.3 billion in damages in 2020, and ends with a devastating 2005 hurricane that caused $170 billion in damage and killed at least 1,833 people. Keep reading to discover the 50 of the most expensive climate disasters in recent decades in the U.S.

Gallery Credit: KATELYN LEBOFF

More From News Talk 96.5 KPEL