The National Weather Service in Lubbock has warned of extreme cold temperatures and the potential for heavy snowfall affecting the Texas Panhandle beginning Friday and continuing through the weekend, due to Winter Storm Fern. In response to these conditions, a number of schools, businesses, and institutions have announced closures, early releases, or delays.
In the Lubbock area, public schools are adjusting schedules accordingly. Abernathy ISD plans an early dismissal on Friday at 12:30 p.m., with buses departing shortly after. Classes and activities at several other districts, including Brownfield, Floydada, Frenship, and Littlefield ISD, have been canceled outright. Many districts like Idalou, Lubbock-Cooper, and Roosevelt ISD will release students early at various times to ensure safe travel home.
Private educational institutions are not unaffected; Christ the King Schools will pivot to virtual learning for Friday, while Kingdom Preparatory Academy, Trinity Christian School, and Harmony Science Academy in Lubbock are also canceling classes.
Higher education is similarly impacted, with Texas Tech University and Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center closing their campuses early on Friday. South Plains College will also release its campuses at noon.
Moreover, public service organizations have adjusted their hours, with the Lubbock County Courthouse delaying its opening until noon on Monday, January 26. Covenant Health Levelland clinics will close early at 2 p.m. on Friday, although their emergency room will remain open continuously.
The harsh weather has led Palo Duro Canyon State Park to advise visitors to postpone their travel plans. All weekend programs are canceled, and guests planning to stay in the park should be aware of possible frozen water supplies, potential power loss, and should prepare for possible extended stays due to the severe weather.
As the community braces for the incoming storm, local authorities emphasize safety and caution. Although winter weather can pose significant challenges, these proactive measures demonstrate the importance of preparedness, ensuring that students and families can stay safe through this weather event.