JCPS Cancels Outdoor Practices and May Delay Friday Football Over Heat Advisory
District officials say wet-bulb globe temperature readings and humidity-driven heat risks require changes to protect student-athletes.
Overview
- Jefferson County Public Schools announced on Tuesday that all outdoor practices and competitions are canceled for Wednesday and Thursday and that schedules may be changed for the rest of the week.
- Officials said some contests will be moved indoors, rescheduled, or have later kickoffs with Friday high-school games possibly shifted to about 7:30–8:00 p.m. to avoid peak heat.
- A Valley at Southern game that had been set for Thursday was moved up to Tuesday night because officials could not find an alternate date that worked for officials and players.
- Norton Sports Health physician Dr. Victor Kremser warned that high humidity prevents sweat from evaporating, which raises core body temperature and can cause heat exhaustion or heatstroke that requires immediate cooling before hospital transfer.
- JCPS said trainers are trained to spot heat illness and that cooling tubs, ice towels, shaded areas, regular water breaks, and public warnings for spectators are in place to reduce risk.