Excessive heat forces schools to close early in Buffalo

Summer-like weather is on its way to Western New York, and temperatures will soar to the point where officials across the region may be forced to make changes to how things play out for the rest of the month this year.

It appears hot temperatures en route to Western New York prompted Buffalo Public Schools officials to issue an announcement that surprised many people in the area.

READ MORE: Extreme heat could trigger heat advisories in Western New York

With temperatures expected in the mid to upper 90s this week and several Buffalo schools lacking adequate air conditioning, BPS will use half-day classes for the remainder of the school year.

Buffalo Public Schools has decided to implement four half days next week for students in all early childhood, elementary and middle school grades (K-8) on Monday, June 17, Tuesday June 18, Thursday June 20. and Friday June 21. Lunch will be served to all students before their dismissal. Students will be released three and a half hours earlier (10:55 a.m., 11:45 a.m. and 12:35 p.m.) than their usual dismissal times.
-Buffalo Public Schools

Buffalo High School students have Regents exams next week and will not be in school all day due to their testing schedule. When students are in school, BPS said it will install water stations throughout the district.

Buffalo is not the only district that has decided to pull children out of classes early. Williamsville Central will follow suit on Tuesday, June 18 and Thursday, June 20.