Middle Tennessee, October 12, 2025
News Summary
Several school districts in Middle Tennessee, including Cheatham and Robertson Counties, are closing or delaying school on February 21 due to extreme cold temperatures and a flu outbreak. The CDC has reported high flu activity in Tennessee, prompting these measures for student safety. Additionally, a winter storm is forecasted to bring significant snow accumulation, leading to hazardous travel conditions. Parents are advised to stay updated on school closures and take precautions during the cold weather.
Middle Tennessee Schools Announce Closures and Delays Due to Extreme Cold and Flu Outbreaks
Several school districts in Middle Tennessee will close or delay their start times on Friday, February 21, due to severe cold temperatures and a significant flu outbreak affecting students. Key districts including Cheatham County and Robertson County Schools made their announcements on Thursday, with Dickson County Schools closing due to an increase in flu cases among students.
Tennessee currently ranks fourth in the United States for flu activity, as recorded by Walgreens. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has also identified the state experiencing high flu activity levels, prompting health officials to monitor the situation closely.
Weather Effects and Safety Advisories
The decision for school closures comes amid the aftermath of a winter storm that led to freezing temperatures and storm damage across various regions of Tennessee. In addition, the National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for parts of Middle Tennessee expected to last until 7 a.m. on Sunday, warning residents of the potential for storm-related issues.
Parents should note that Cheatham County’s extended daycare program will remain operational on Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m., although all extra-curricular activities and community use of facilities will be suspended. Meanwhile, daycare services in Robertson County will be closed as per the School Director’s directive.
Upcoming Winter Weather
A highly impactful winter storm is forecasted to affect Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky, beginning early Friday morning. Snow accumulation is expected to start as early as 2 a.m. in western parts of Middle Tennessee, progressing eastward. In Nashville and along Interstate 65, snow is anticipated to begin between 4 a.m. and 7 a.m., with the Cumberland Plateau likely experiencing snowfall by 6 a.m. to 9 a.m.
Snowfall throughout the day is projected to be steady, with potential heavy bands of snow affecting visibility and travel. Predictions suggest total snow accumulations may reach between 4 inches to 6 inches for much of Middle Tennessee, which is expected to lead to hazardous travel conditions and flight disruptions at local airports.
Cold Weather Advisory Issued
The National Weather Service is warning residents of dangerously cold temperatures throughout the region, issuing a Cold Weather Advisory. On Friday morning, wind chill values are predicted to range from zero to 7 degrees, advising people to dress in layers and safeguard vulnerable individuals, pets, and plumbing.
The list of school closures and delays will be updated as more information becomes available, ensuring that community members stay informed about the ongoing situation.
FAQ Section
- Which school districts are closing on February 21?
- Cheatham County Schools, Robertson County Schools, and Dickson County Schools are among those closing or delaying openings.
- Why are schools closing?
- Closures are due to extreme cold temperatures and an outbreak of flu cases within the school systems.
- What are the expected weather conditions?
- A winter storm is expected to bring snow accumulation of 4 to 6 inches in many areas, with hazardous travel conditions anticipated.
- How long will the flood watch last?
- The flood watch is in effect until 7 a.m. on Sunday.
- What should residents do during this weather?
- Residents are advised to dress warmly, protect vulnerable individuals and pets, and be cautious while traveling.
Weather and School Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| School Closures | Cheatham County Schools, Robertson County Schools, Dickson County Schools |
| Flu Activity Ranking | Tennessee ranks #4 in the U.S. |
| Snow Accumulation | 4 to 6 inches expected |
| Flood Watch Duration | Until 7 a.m. on Sunday |
| Wind Chill Warning | Zero to 7 degrees on February 21 |
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Additional Resources
- FOX 17 News
- Wikipedia: School Closure
- The Tennessean
- Google Search: Nashville school closures
- WSMV News
- Google Scholar: Nashville school closures
- News Channel 5
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closures
- The Tennessean – Weather Closures
- Google News: Nashville area school closures
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