The uncertainty of the path of Hurricane Dorian has prompted the cancellation of classes this week for all Marion County public schools.
Superintendent Heidi Maier made the announcement Monday afternoon on her Twitter account.
Maier said 12-month employees should report as usual “unless dangers prevent this.” Employees may request time off from their immediate supervisors.
In addition, some schools will be used as shelters.
In addition, some schools will be used as shelters.
With the potential for the easternmost portions of Marion County to experience some tropical storm-force winds up to 39 mph, Emergency Management officials are encouraging those residents living east of U.S. Hwy. 441 and have special, medical needs and may become more vulnerable should there be a loss of power, to seek shelter either with family/friends that may have agenerator or to go to Westport High School where special needs services are available.
This shelter will only be for special needs patients and will be opening at 2 p.m. Monday. At this time, this is the only shelter that will be opened. Marion County Animal Services will be assisting these special
needs patients that have a pet other than a service animal if they choose to go to the shelter.
At noon Tuesday, three additional shelters will be opening for general population. Those will be Ft. McCoy School, North Marion Middle School and Lake Weir High School. Lake Weir High School will be a pet-friendly shelter. Registered sex offenders will not be allowed at any of these shelters. Sex offenders will need to go to the Marion County Jail Visitation Center.
For the latest shelter information, including which ones are open, and other storm-related updates, contact the Citizens Emergency Information Hotline at (352) 369-7500.