Local school districts in Montgomery, Delaware and Bucks counties have announced cancellations of after-school and evening activities Monday as severe storms capable of producing tornadoes move into the region.
District officials announced the precautionary cancellations after the National Weather Service issued a tornado watch for Montgomery, Bucks, Philadelphia and Delaware counties through 7 p.m. Monday. The watch indicates conditions are favorable for the development of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.
The following school districts have announced cancellations:
Forecasters warn the storms could bring damaging wind gusts up to 80 mph, isolated hail up to the size of a quarter and the possibility of a few tornadoes across the watch area.
Because of the threat of severe weather during the late afternoon and evening hours, school officials said all after-school activities, athletics, clubs and evening events across the district have been canceled to ensure the safety of students, staff and families.
"All students are encouraged to go home immediately following the school day," wrote Lansdale Catholic, in Montgomery County, on its Facebook.
Emergency management officials are urging residents to secure outdoor furniture and remain weather aware as storms approach. If a tornado warning or emergency alert is issued, residents are advised to take shelter immediately in a basement or in a first-floor interior room without windows.
Officials also recommend preparing an emergency kit that includes a charged cell phone with alerts enabled, a flashlight with extra batteries, a first-aid kit, food and drinking water, medications and important documents.
