Perry Central High School has been emptied of students and staff as emergency responders fight a “possible forest fire” around U.S. Highway 98.
MDOT officials say heavy smoke is visible around U.S. 98 between Thomas Lane and Winggate Road. A report came in just before 8 a.m. about the suspected blaze, prompting emergency management officials to dispatch law enforcement and fire departments to investigate the cause and location of the flames.
Because of the possible fire and its proximity to Perry Central High School, school officials elected to move to virtual learning for the rest of the day. Student drivers were told to go home, while school buses were being used to return other students to their homes.
Perry County Emergency Management Agency Director Chase Dewitt says officers and fire departments are on the scene to direct traffic and ensure students are able to leave the school and return home safely.
According to MDOT, heavy smoke can reduce visibility as the agency advises all motorists to reduce their speed and exercise caution in the area.
