University statement on Hurricane Idalia

Update, Thursday, August 31st: The University will reopen and convene classes at 8:30 AM, Friday, September 1st.

Idalia is expected to bring moderate to strong winds and heavy rainfall to the Pee Dee beginning late tomorrow afternoon and extending into the day on Thursday. The state climatologist informed us that the projected track has slipped to the west (toward the Pee Dee) and may shift even further. He has also advised that the storm’s forward speed has slowed, and it has increased in strength.

Of particular concern is the possibility of flooding throughout the region.  Since a substantial number of our students, faculty, and staff travel secondary roads which have been susceptible to flooding problems in the two previous storms, the university will cancel classes and close administrative offices effective at 2:30 tomorrow and remain closed on Thursday. Closing at 2:30 allows sufficient time for commuting and residential students who want to return home to do so before the heavy deluge begins. Returning on Friday should provide sufficient time for much of the water to recede and debris clearance to occur.

We will reopen and classes will resume on Friday morning at 8:30.