Lafayette, LA – Acadiana’s snowstorm has extended its impact, forcing several schools and districts to remain closed on Friday, with many facing ongoing issues related to freezing temperatures and water disruptions. As of Thursday, the region has experienced nearly a week of severe winter conditions, prompting local school systems to make safety a priority.
Vermilion Parish Superintendent Tommy Byler addressed the situation in a recent Facebook post, noting that many schools in the district were facing difficulties with water supply. “We will be checking facilities and attempting to turn the water back on,” Byler said. “In some of our schools, water and pressure may be an issue as the water problems affecting the community are also impacting our schools.”
A number of school districts have already announced closures for Friday, including:
- Acadia Parish
- Evangeline Parish (administrators, school secretaries, custodians, and 12-month employees at district offices are asked to report to work between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.)
- Iberia Parish
- Lafayette Parish
- St. Landry Parish (12-month employees will report to work from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., weather permitting)
- St. Martin Parish
- St. Mary Parish
- Vermilion Parish
- Jeff Davis Parish
In addition to public school closures, several private and charter schools will remain closed, including:
- Diocese of Lafayette schools
- Acadiana Christian School in New Iberia
- Acadiana Renaissance Charter Academy K-12 in Youngsville
- Lafayette Christian Academy
- Lafayette Renaissance Charter Academy
- St. Landry Charter School
- Vermilion Charter Academy
The storm’s effects are also felt at the college level, with several local institutions adjusting their schedules:
- LSU Eunice, including campuses in Lafayette and Alexandria, will remain closed on Friday.
- South Louisiana Community College has also announced its closure.
- UL Lafayette will continue remote learning on Friday.
As the situation develops, local authorities are advising residents to stay informed as further updates are expected. The impact of this ongoing storm underscores the challenges faced by both students and faculty in the Acadiana region, with many hoping for a return to normal conditions in the coming days.