As Fay nears, several area schools to close early

Several area schools are closing early today because of Tropical Storm Fay’s approach.

Dothan City, Houston County, Geneva County, Geneva City and Henry County schools will close at 1 p.m. today, even though Fay isn’t projected to make a significant area impact until tonight.

“We’re closing at one o’clock (Friday) just to be on the safe side,” said Houston County Schools Superintendent Tim Pitchford.

According to Ron Block, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Tallahassee, heavy rain will begin to seep into Dothan early Friday night, and flooding could become a problem starting late Friday night.

“We’re expecting five to seven inches of rain, max, in the Dothan area, causing some localized flooding,” Block said. “A lot of rain’s not really going to affect Dothan until Saturday.”

Houston County EMA Director Clark Matthews said Wiregrass residents should be aware of areas prone to flooding.

“Residents in low-lying areas or areas throughout our county that are prone to flooding should be prepared to deal with high waters,” Matthews said.

Capt. Chris Etheredge of the Dothan Fire Dept. said residents should only call 911 to report crimes in progress, fires or to request emergency medical help.

“Anytime something like this happens, our 911 receives a very significant number of non-emergency calls,” Etheredge said.

According to Block, the storm should be clear of the Wiregrass area by early Monday.