Winter storm prompts multiple schools, businesses to close Monday

The Vicksburg Warren School District has announced all schools and offices will be closed on Monday, January 11 due to the winter storm warning issued by the National Weather Service. Meal delivery is also canceled on Monday in anticipation of hazardous conditions on roads, bridges and overpasses.

The district’s early announcement will allow employees, parents and students ample time to plan and prepare in advance.

Porter’s Chapel Academy has canceled Monday classes to ensure the safety of all students.

At this time, St. Aloysius has not made an announcement regarding a closure.

Agape Montessori Christian Academy made the decision last Friday to close their campus for a 2-week quarantine period due to COVID-19.  No weather related updates have been released for students, yet.

The Warren County Board of Supervisors has also taken preemptive action and rescheduled their working session to 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, January 12, according to District 3 Supervisor Shawn Jackson.

Some businesses are also already planning to close Monday.  Patriot Motorsports posted a notice on their Facebook page informing customers that they will be closing in the interest of employee and customer safety.

Emergency Management Director John Elfer stressed the importance of preparedness saying, “When it comes to an emergency, hoping it works out is not a plan.”

Now is the time to ensure flashlights and weather radios are handy and have fresh batteries.  Charge your cell phones or secure a backup power source.  Determine how you and your family will stay warm if power is lost.

Mayor Flaggs advised that the Vicksburg Police Department will be monitoring the road conditions as the storm makes its way through our area.  Salt and other resources are on hand to deploy when and where they are needed.  Every effort will be made to reduce the hazards on the roadways, however, all unnecessary travel should be avoided Monday morning.

Elfer warns against underestimating the road conditions. “Just because you’re driving a 4-wheel-drive doesn’t mean you can’t slip off the road,” he said.  “We want to certainly be sure that everybody is safe.”