Winter closing public, private schools; St. John takes precautions

Published 2:56 pm Tuesday, January 16, 2018

RESERVE — School officials announced closures for Wednesday.

In anticipation of wintry weather, all schools in the St. John the Baptist Parish Public School District will be closed on Wednesday (Jan. 17).

Other St. John Parish schools that announced Wednesday closures include St. Peter School and Riverside Academy in Reserve, as well as St. Joan of Arc Catholic School, Ascension of Our Lord Catholic School and St. Charles Catholic High School in LaPlace.

St. John Parish Government officials announced they are closely monitoring the potential for winter weather Tuesday night into Wednesday and making preparations parishwide. Residents are advised to make necessary preparations to prevent leaks and monitor weather conditions closely.

Advisories

  • Winter Weather Advisory until 12:00 am, Wednesday, January 17, 2018.
  • Hard Freeze Warning until 11:am, Thursday, January 18, 2018.
  • Wind Chill Advisory until 11:00 am Wednesday, January 17, 2018.

Precautions

  • Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses – Detaching the hose allows water to drain from the pipe so an overnight freeze doesn’t burst the faucet or the pipe it’s connected to.
  • Insulate pipes or faucets in unheated areas or areas that are exposed to the cold. Please wrap water pipes in unheated areas. You can find pipe wrapping materials at any hardware or building supply store. Heat tape or similar materials can also be exposed on water pipes.
  • Seal off access doors, air vents and cracks in openings where cold air can pass through at homes.
  • Only use flushing and dripping faucets as a last resort.

Road Closures

  • No closures at this time. Residents should stay off roadways if possible tonight. Any moisture from precipitation will turn to ice especially on bridges and overpasses.
  • Before traveling, check road conditions by visiting the State Police’s website at lsp.orgor dial 511 for latest. Please dial 911 for emergencies.

Parish Offices

  • All recreational activities scheduled for Tuesday, January 16, 2018are canceled.
  • The Utilities Board Meeting scheduled for Tuesday, January 16, 2018is canceled.
  • St. John Parish offices will remain open, Wednesday, January 17, 2018.