UPDATE: The Boulder Valley School District has announced an urgent closure for all schools on Friday, December 15, 2023, due to dangerous high winds and elevated fire risks. This marks the second consecutive day of closures, providing students an unexpected early start to winter break.
The Boulder Office of Emergency Management is advising residents to avoid driving, as Friday’s weather conditions pose significant hazards. Alongside the school closures, Xcel Energy has indicated a potential power outage starting as early as 5 a.m. Friday, impacting many residents across the area.
After Wednesday’s severe storm, which produced gusts exceeding 100 miles per hour, the district faced substantial challenges. Reports confirm that about 20 schools were left without power, a number that has decreased to 16 by Thursday afternoon. Boulder Valley spokesman Randy Barber noted, “It’s difficult to operate a school district when you have a lot of schools that are out of power.”
The intense winds have already caused damage at several schools, including shattered windows at Fairview High School and Columbine Elementary School. “About 10 windows cracked and shattered, likely from flying debris,” Barber reported, emphasizing the chaos students faced while taking finals.
In light of the closures, the district plans to reschedule missed finals to the first week after winter break, delaying the start of the second semester. High schools will communicate specific schedules to families directly.
Officials are also addressing concerns related to staff and students whose homes are without power, coupled with dangerous road conditions due to downed trees and traffic lights. Barber added, “It was a significant event,” underscoring the disruption caused by the weather.
For ongoing updates, families can visit the Boulder Valley School District’s official website at bvsd.org. This situation remains dynamic, and officials urge everyone to stay informed and prioritize safety.
