As winter weather continues to impact Memphis and the Mid-South, local authorities have implemented several service updates regarding school closures, warming centers, and public facilities. This article aims to provide residents with the latest information and resources available during this icy period.
In light of the ongoing winter storm, schools across the region have announced closures. Memphis-Shelby County Schools will be closed on Monday, January 26, along with several other districts including Arlington, Bartlett, Germantown, Collierville, and Millington. DeSoto County schools will also join in canceling classes due to hazardous road conditions. Many charter schools are evaluating their own situations independently and details can be found on their websites.
Higher education institutions are also responding to the weather. Rhodes College will transition to remote work for staff and close through January 26. Similarly, Christian Brothers University has canceled all weekend events and moved to virtual classes starting Monday. The University of Memphis will remain open but will shift to modified operations, including remote classes until the end of January 26.
Transportation services are affected too, as the Memphis Area Transit Authority has suspended operations until further notice. The Memphis Police Department has activated its inclement weather policy, advising drivers involved in non-injury accidents to exchange information instead of calling the police.
For those in need of warmth and shelter, the City of Memphis is collaborating with the Hospitality Hub to run a warming center at First Baptist Church located at 200 East Parkway North. Transport to this center can be arranged via a dedicated phone line. Additional warming centers have been set up throughout the region: Frayser-Raleigh Senior Center, Bert Ferguson Community Center, and others are available, with certain locations accepting pets.
Memphis Public Libraries have adapted their operations and will keep seven branches open while museums like the National Civil Rights Museum will remain closed until January 28. Parks activities are canceled as a precaution against the icy weather, and venues like the Overton Park Shell are advising sledders to exercise care on their slopes.
In terms of government operations, the Shelby County Juvenile Court will be closed on January 26, with only specific hearings transferred to virtual format. Several other local government offices, including the Shelby County Assessor of Property, are also postponing in-person services.
With municipalities bustling to keep their residents informed, updates about closures, service modifications, and safety measures can be found through various city websites and official social media channels. Critical alerts and information can be received via text and email by signing up for community alert systems in various towns.
Overall, while many services are disrupted, the community continues to adapt and support one another during this challenging winter weather event. Residents are encouraged to stay safe and utilize the resources available to them during this period.