Edinburg To Open Schools Later, County Also to Open Later, Warming Center Opens
Staff Reports
Edinburg, TX, January 12, 2024 – City, school and county offices are preparing for this week’s expected freezing temperatures. Edinburg schools will start Tuesday’s classes later than normal, and Hidalgo County offices will also open later.
The National Weather Service has issued a freeze warning from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m. Tuesday with temperatures forecast to be as low as 27 degrees.
Edinburg CISD sent out a notice to parents and staff that Tuesday classes schedules change to accommodate the weather. Elementary classes wills start at 10 am, middle school classes at 10:30 am and high school classes at 11 am. All staff are expected to arrive at 9 am.
All Hidalgo County offices will delay opening on Tuesday, January 16, 2024, because of the inclement weather. County offices will open at 10 a.m. on Tuesday instead of the normal 8 a.m. start. “I encourage everyone to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel during this cold spell,” Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said.
The City of Edinburg is taking preemptive action to support the community by establishing a Warming Center at the Dustin Michael Sekula Memorial Library at 1906 S. Closner Blvd.
The Warming Center is scheduled to open its doors on today, Monday, at 8 p.m., conclude operations on Tuesday at 8 a.m., reopen on Tuesday at 8 p.m., and ultimately close on Wednesday at 8 a.m. This vital service will be available from January 15 to January 17, focusing on the coldest hours of each day.
The primary goal is to offer refuge and protection to residents who might be vulnerable to the severe weather conditions expected during this period. Concurrently, the Dustin M. Sekula Memorial Library will maintain its regular business hours from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
To enhance their stay, individuals seeking shelter are encouraged to bring essential items such as a pillow and blanket, non-perishable food and snacks, and any necessary overnight medication. As a consideration for the well-being and comfort of all occupants, the Warming Center will not permit pets.
Residents with inquiries or concerns are encouraged to contact 3-1-1, where a dedicated team will be available to address questions and provide assistance.
The City of Edinburg remains committed to the welfare of its residents and will closely monitor weather conditions. The establishment of the Warming Center at the Dustin M. Sekula Memorial Library underscores the city’s unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and comfort of its community members during adverse weather events.